Child Disability Payment (CDP) Scotland Calculator 2026
Calculate Child Disability Payment (CDP) for disabled children in Scotland. Replaces DLA for Children from July 2021. Daily living and mobility rates.
Child Disability Payment Rate Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Child Disability Payment?
Child Disability Payment (CDP) is a Scottish Government benefit for disabled children and young people aged under 16. It is paid by Social Security Scotland and replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for Children from July 2021.
Who can receive CDP?
Children and young people living in Scotland aged 3 months to under 16 who have a disability or long-term health condition that means they need substantially more care, supervision, or help getting around than a child of the same age without the condition.
What are the CDP care rates for 2025/26?
Low rate: £28.70/week. Middle rate: £72.65/week. High rate: £108.55/week.
What are the CDP mobility rates for 2025/26?
Lower rate: £28.70/week (for children 5+). Higher rate: £75.75/week (for children 3+, with severe walking difficulty or who need support for psychological barriers to travel).
How do I apply for CDP?
Apply online at mygov.scot/cdp, call Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222, or request a paper form.
Is CDP the same as DLA for Children?
Very similar — same components and broadly similar criteria. Key differences: CDP has a less stressful application process, face-to-face assessments are used less, and there are stronger appeal rights.
Does CDP affect other benefits?
CDP is ignored as income for Universal Credit. Receiving the care component may entitle the parent or carer to Carer's Allowance Supplement in Scotland.
What happens when a child turns 16?
CDP is not available from age 16. Young people turning 16 should apply for Adult Disability Payment (ADP) instead. Social Security Scotland will prompt the transition.
Can a child receive CDP if they're in hospital?
CDP may stop or reduce after 28 days in NHS-funded hospital care (for children under 18 in NHS accommodation).
Does the child need to have a diagnosis?
No — CDP is based on the care and mobility needs arising from the condition, not the diagnosis itself. A formal diagnosis helps but is not mandatory.
What evidence should I submit?
Medical letters, therapy reports, school or nursery support plans, care plans, and a description of the child's daily needs in the child's or parent's own words. Supporting evidence helps the application.
Can a carer claim Carer's Allowance for looking after a child on CDP?
Yes — if the child receives the middle or high rate care component of CDP, and you provide at least 35 hours of care per week, you may be eligible for Carer's Allowance (DWP) or Carer Support Payment (Scotland).