# Am I eligible for Child Disability Payment?

> Eligibility · Last reviewed 22 August 2026

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## In short

A child living in Scotland under 16 may get Child Disability Payment if they need much more care or help getting about than other children the same age. A diagnosis is not required. Cash rates match DLA in 2026/27. Children in England, Wales and Northern Ireland claim DLA instead.

Child Disability Payment is paid by Social Security Scotland. It replaced DLA for children living in Scotland. Needs compared with peers decide the award. Confirm live rules on mygov.scot.

Typical amount: Care £30.30 / £76.70 / £114.60 a week; mobility £30.30 or £80 a week (2026/27 — same cash amounts as DLA)

## Who usually qualifies

- The child normally lives in Scotland
- They are under 16
- They need substantially more care, supervision or help getting about than children of the same age without a disability
- Residence and presence tests on mygov.scot are met

## Who usually does not

- The child lives in England, Wales or Northern Ireland — claim Disability Living Allowance instead
- They are 16 or over — look at Adult Disability Payment
- Needs are no greater than typical for their age

## How to check

- Start at mygov.scot/child-disability-payment
- Describe a typical hard week compared with other children the same age
- If you later move to England or Wales you must claim DLA — the Scottish award does not follow automatically

## Frequently asked questions

### Do we need an autism diagnosis?

No. Extra care or mobility needs compared with peers decide the award. A diagnosis helps as evidence but is not required.

### Are the rates the same as DLA?

Yes for 2026/27 cash amounts. The agency and the claim form are different.

### Can this unlock Carer's Allowance?

Middle or highest care can unlock Carer Support Payment in Scotland. Check earnings and overlapping-benefit rules before you claim.

## Related

- [Child Disability Payment explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/child-disability-payment-explained/)
- [Benefits for autistic children](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/benefits-for-autistic-children-uk/)
- [DLA for children eligibility](https://moneyguide.org.uk/eligible-for/dla-for-children/)

## Sources

- [mygov.scot — Child Disability Payment](https://www.mygov.scot/child-disability-payment)
- [GOV.UK — DLA for children (rest of UK)](https://www.gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children)

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