# Disability Living Allowance for children explained (UK)

> Benefits & tax · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## Quick answer

DLA for children helps with extra disability costs for under-16s in England and Wales who need much more care or supervision than others their age, or have walking difficulties. It has care and mobility components — rates depend on need, not income.

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children is being replaced by Personal Independence Payment for adults, but under-16s in England and Wales still claim DLA. Scotland uses Child Disability Payment instead. Take-up is low relative to need — many families miss this non-means-tested help.

## Key facts

- Two components: care (help with personal care/supervision) and mobility (walking difficulties)
- Not means-tested — income and savings do not affect entitlement
- Children in Scotland claim Child Disability Payment via Social Security Scotland
- At 16, most claimants are invited to claim PIP (or Adult Disability Payment in Scotland)

## Care component

Paid at lower, middle or higher rate depending on how much extra care or supervision your child needs compared with a child of the same age without a disability. Night-time needs can qualify for higher rates.

You can qualify even if you are the one providing the care — the test is whether the need exists, not who meets it.

## Mobility component

Lower rate if your child needs substantially more guidance or supervision outdoors than peers. Higher rate if they cannot walk or have severe walking difficulties.

## Claiming and evidence

Claims use form DLA1A Child. Include detailed examples of daily living — dressing, eating, behaviour, safety, medical appointments — and supporting letters from professionals where possible.

Citizens Advice and Contact (for families with disabled children) can help complete forms.

## Frequently asked questions

### Does DLA affect other benefits?

DLA is ignored as income for most means-tested benefits and can increase amounts of Universal Credit, Housing Benefit and tax credits through disability elements. It may qualify you for Carer's Allowance if you care 35+ hours a week.

### What happens at 16?

DWP usually invites a PIP claim before DLA ends. In Scotland, young people move to Adult Disability Payment. Plan ahead — gaps between awards can affect passported benefits.

## Primary source

https://www.gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children

## Related

- [Am I eligible for DLA for a child?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/eligible-for/dla-for-children/)
- [PIP explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/personal-independence-payment/)
- [Benefits in Scotland](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/scotland-benefits-explained/)
- [Benefits estimator](https://moneyguide.org.uk/tools/benefits-estimator/)

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.