Disability Living Allowance Set to Rise: Starting in April 2025, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) payments in the UK are set to increase by 1.7%. This rise is part of the government’s annual review to align benefits with inflation and the cost of living. For families and individuals who rely on DLA, this uplift brings welcome financial relief. DLA is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit that provides support for individuals with disabilities who need help with daily care or getting around. While new DLA claims are only accepted for children under 16 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, some adults who claimed before a specific cutoff date continue to receive it. Scotland has transitioned to its own benefit system, replacing DLA with the Child Disability Payment.
Disability Living Allowance Set to Rise
The 2025 increase in Disability Living Allowance is a meaningful boost for families and individuals managing disabilities. Understanding the updated rates, eligibility criteria, and related benefits can ensure you’re accessing all available support. Whether you’re a parent navigating the application process for the first time or a long-time recipient checking for updates, this guide provides the essential details to help you plan effectively. DLA remains a crucial financial support for children with additional needs, and knowing how to apply or maintain your claim is key. As policies evolve and benefits increase, staying informed is your best tool for advocacy and peace of mind.
| Detail | 2025/26 Update |
|---|---|
| Weekly Payment Range | £29.20 – £187.45 |
| Annual Maximum Payment | Up to £9,747.40 |
| Eligibility | Children under 16 with care/mobility needs; adults born before 8 April 1948 |
| Application Method | GOV.UK Claim Form |
| Additional Support | Carer’s Allowance, higher entitlement in Tax Credits, Housing Benefit, etc. |
| DLA Replacement for Adults | New claims now processed as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) |
DLA Payment Rates for 2025/26
DLA is made up of two parts: the Care Component and the Mobility Component. You may receive one or both, depending on your or your child’s condition and needs.
Care Component
| Rate | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Highest | £110.40 |
| Middle | £73.90 |
| Lowest | £29.20 |
Mobility Component
| Rate | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Higher | £77.05 |
| Lower | £29.20 |
If eligible for both the highest rates, a claimant can receive £187.45 per week, which equates to £749.80 every four weeks or £9,747.40 annually.
Who Can Claim DLA?
Children Under 16
DLA is available to children who:
- Need much more care, attention, or supervision than other children of the same age.
- Have difficulty walking or getting around.
- Have had these difficulties for at least three months and are expected to continue for at least six more months.
These rules also apply if the child has a life-limiting condition, in which case they may be eligible for fast-tracked support.
Adults (Only in Certain Cases)
While new claims for DLA are not accepted for those aged 16 or over, there are exceptions. Adults who were born before 8 April 1948 and have been receiving DLA without transition to PIP may continue to do so.
For new adult disability claims, the correct benefit to apply for is Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
How to Apply for Disability Living Allowance Set to Rise? (Children Only)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Get the Application Form
Download it from the official government website or call 0800 121 4600 to request a paper form. - Fill in the Form Thoroughly
Be specific and detailed. Include real-life examples and keep a daily care diary if possible. Focus on how much help your child needs—not just their diagnosis. - Send in the Application
Mail it to the address provided on the form. If you requested it via phone, your claim might be backdated to the date of the call. - Wait for a Decision
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) usually provides a decision within 12 weeks. If more medical evidence is needed, it may take longer.
Additional Benefits You Might Be Entitled To
Carer’s Allowance
If you look after someone (including a child) who receives the middle or highest rate of DLA care, you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance—worth £83.30 per week in 2025/26.
You must:
- Care for them for at least 35 hours per week.
- Earn less than £151 per week after tax and expenses.
- Be 16 or over and not in full-time education.
Benefits That May Increase if You Get DLA
Receiving DLA can increase entitlement to or the amount of:
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Council Tax Reduction
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is DLA the same as PIP?
No. DLA is being phased out for adults and replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Children under 16 still claim DLA.
2. Can I claim DLA for my child in Scotland?
No. In Scotland, DLA has been replaced by the Child Disability Payment.
3. Is DLA affected by income or savings?
No. DLA is not means-tested. Your family’s income or savings do not affect eligibility or the amount you receive.
4. What happens when my child turns 16?
They will be invited to apply for PIP. DWP will send instructions on how to transition. If they’re in Scotland, they’ll move to Adult Disability Payment.
5. Can I appeal a DLA decision?
Yes. If you’re unhappy with a decision, you can ask for a mandatory reconsideration. If still dissatisfied, you can appeal to a tribunal.
