# How to claim DLA for a child in the UK

> How-to · Last reviewed 22 August 2026

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## Quick answer

Download or request form DLA1A Child, describe day-to-day care and mobility needs compared with non-disabled children the same age, attach supporting evidence, and post to DWP — or apply for Child Disability Payment in Scotland.

DLA claims are paper-based in England and Wales. Strong claims focus on real examples — what help your child needs, how often, and what would happen without support. Scotland uses a separate digital process for Child Disability Payment.

## Steps

### 1. Check eligibility

Confirm your child is under 16 and needs substantially more care or supervision than peers, or has qualifying mobility needs. Read our DLA eligibility checker first.

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

### 2. Get the claim form

Download DLA1A Child from gov.uk or phone the DLA helpline to request a pack. In Scotland apply online for Child Disability Payment via mygov.scot.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children/how-to-claim

### 3. Complete care and mobility sections

Use specific examples: dressing, eating, behaviour, safety outdoors, night waking, medical treatments. Compare with children of the same age without a disability. For autism, write the hardest typical week — [financial support overview](https://autismparentguide.org/daily-life/financial-support) and our [autistic-child benefits guide](/benefits-tax/benefits-for-autistic-children-uk/).

### 4. Attach supporting evidence

Include reports from GPs, specialists, therapists or school SENCOs if available — but your own diary of needs is equally important.

### 5. Post the form and track the decision

Send to the address on the form. DWP may arrange a phone consultation. Decisions can take several months — report changes if needs worsen.

### 6. If refused, ask for mandatory reconsideration

You have one month to challenge. Add new evidence explaining which descriptors your child meets. Citizens Advice can help with appeals to tribunal.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/mandatory-reconsideration

## Common pitfalls

- Listing diagnoses without daily examples — decision makers need functional impact
- Missing the one-month mandatory reconsideration deadline
- Assuming Scotland uses the same DLA form — use Child Disability Payment instead

## Frequently asked questions

### Can I claim DLA for an autistic child without a diagnosis?

Yes if extra care or mobility needs are clear compared with other children the same age. Full guide: [benefits for autistic children](/benefits-tax/benefits-for-autistic-children-uk/). Parent-written help: [financial support](https://autismparentguide.org/daily-life/financial-support).

### Can I claim before age three?

DLA can be paid from age three months (or from birth if terminally ill). Mobility higher rate usually applies from age three.

## Sources

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

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