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How-to · Step-by-step

How to claim DLA for a child in the UK

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In short. 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.

Last reviewed:

·Estimated time: 2 hours

The steps

  1. 01

    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.

    Official link →

  2. 02

    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.

    Official link →

  3. 03

    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.

  4. 04

    Attach supporting evidence

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

  5. 05

    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. 06

    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.

    Official link →

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

FAQ

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.
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