The UK government has announced a 1.7% increase in Disability Living Allowance (DLA) payments, effective April 2025. This increase aims to help families caring for children with disabilities manage rising living costs.
DLA is a crucial financial aid for children under 16 years old who require extra care or have mobility challenges due to a disability or health condition. While Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has replaced DLA for individuals over 16, children under 16 still qualify for DLA if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Overview of the DLA Payment Increase 2025
The 1.7% rise in DLA payments ensures that families receive more financial support to meet the additional care and mobility needs of children with disabilities.
New DLA Payment Rates (Effective April 2025)
| Component | Previous Rate (2024) | New Rate (2025) | Increase (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Care Component – Highest Rate | £100.35 | £101.75 | 1.7% |
| Care Component – Middle Rate | £67.20 | £68.10 | 1.7% |
| Care Component – Lowest Rate | £27.30 | £27.90 | 1.7% |
| Mobility Component – Higher Rate | £73.00 | £74.45 | 1.7% |
| Mobility Component – Lower Rate | £28.50 | £29.00 | 1.7% |
The increase reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to support families struggling with the rising costs of living and healthcare expenses.
Eligibility Criteria for DLA in 2025
To qualify for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in 2025, a child must meet specific requirements related to care and mobility needs.
General Eligibility Requirements
- The applicant must be under 16 years old.
- The child must have care or mobility needs due to a disability or health condition.
- The disability or condition must have lasted at least 3 months and be expected to continue for at least 6 more months.
Care Component Eligibility
A child may qualify for the care component if they:
- Need help with personal care (e.g., washing, dressing, feeding).
- Require constant supervision to avoid harm.
- Need someone to monitor them during the day or night due to their condition.
Mobility Component Eligibility
A child may qualify for the mobility component if they:
- Are unable to walk or have significant difficulty walking.
- Require guidance or supervision when moving around outside.
The rate awarded depends on the severity of the child’s mobility challenges.
How to Apply for DLA in 2025
Applying for DLA payments requires careful documentation and a step-by-step approach to ensure a successful claim.
Step 1: Obtain the DLA Claim Form
You can get the DLA claim form (DLA1A) by:
- Downloading it from GOV.UK.
- Calling the Disability Living Allowance helpline.
Step 2: Complete the Form Accurately
- Provide detailed information about your child’s condition.
- Describe their care and mobility needs clearly.
- Include relevant medical reports or letters from doctors, therapists, or healthcare professionals.
Step 3: Submit the Application
- Send the completed form along with supporting documents to the Disability and Carers Service.
- Keep a copy of the application for your records.
Step 4: Await Decision and Payments
- The DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) will review the claim.
- If approved, payments are made every 4 weeks directly to the claimant.
What If Your DLA Application Is Rejected?
If your DLA claim is denied, you can:
- Request a mandatory reconsideration within one month of receiving the decision.
- Submit additional medical evidence to support your case.
- If necessary, appeal the decision through a tribunal hearing.
DLA and Transition to Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
When a child turns 16, they must apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead of DLA.
- The DWP will notify claimants before their 16th birthday to start the transition process.
- PIP assessments focus on daily living and mobility needs similar to DLA but with different criteria.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the DLA payment increase in 2025?
All existing DLA recipients under 16 will automatically receive the increased rates. New applicants must meet eligibility criteria to qualify.
When will the DLA increase take effect?
The 1.7% increase in DLA payments takes effect from April 2025.
How much is the new maximum DLA payment in 2025?
The highest weekly DLA payment in 2025 is £101.75 for the care component and £74.45 for the mobility component.
Do I need to reapply to receive the increased DLA payment?
No, existing claimants do not need to reapply—the increase is applied automatically.
How often are DLA payments made?
DLA payments are typically made every 4 weeks directly into the claimant’s bank account.
Can I claim both DLA and Universal Credit?
Yes, you can receive both DLA and Universal Credit, as DLA is a non-means-tested benefit.
What happens when my child turns 16?
At age 16, DLA claimants must transition to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and undergo a new eligibility assessment.
Can I appeal if my DLA application is denied?
Yes, you can request a mandatory reconsideration and appeal to a tribunal if your claim is rejected.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
