Disability Living Allowance (DLA) Rates Calculator 2025/26
DLA rates for 2025/26: care component £28.70–£108.55/week. Mobility: £28.70 (lower) or £75.75 (higher). DLA for adults closed in 2016 — new claims use PIP.
DLA Rate Calculator 2025/26
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can claim DLA in 2026?
DLA for children (under 16) is still available for new claims in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. DLA for adults closed to new claims in 2016 — adults now claim PIP. In Scotland, Child Disability Payment (CDP) has replaced DLA for children.
What are the DLA rates for 2025/26?
Care component: Low £28.70/week, Middle £72.65/week, High £108.55/week. Mobility component: Lower £28.70/week (age 5+), Higher £75.75/week (age 3+).
Is DLA being phased out for adults?
DLA for working-age adults has been replaced by PIP since 2013. Remaining DLA recipients are being reassessed and moved to PIP. Only children and some people who reached pension age before April 2013 may still have DLA.
What is the minimum age for DLA mobility component?
Higher rate mobility: from age 3 (for severe walking difficulty). Lower rate mobility: from age 5. No age requirement for the care component.
Is DLA means-tested?
No — DLA is not means-tested. It's based on care and mobility needs, not income or savings.
Can a disabled child receive DLA if they're in hospital?
DLA may stop after 28 days in NHS-funded residential care or hospital, or after 84 days in certain other accommodation.
How is DLA paid?
Every 4 weeks, directly to the claimant's bank account. The child's parent or guardian typically receives it for children.
Does DLA affect other benefits?
DLA is disregarded as income for means-tested benefits like Universal Credit and Tax Credits. However, receiving the care component can trigger the disability premium in means-tested benefits.
What is the 3-month/6-month test for DLA?
You must have had the disability for at least 3 months before claiming, and expect it to last at least 6 months (exceptions apply for terminal illness).
Does the carer get any extra if the child receives DLA?
Yes — if the child receives the middle or high rate care component, and a carer provides 35+ hours of care per week, the carer may qualify for Carer's Allowance (£81.90/week in 2025/26) or Universal Credit carer element.
What if my DLA claim is refused?
You can request a Mandatory Reconsideration (within 1 month), then appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal if still refused.
How do I apply for DLA for a child?
Download the DLA1 Child form from gov.uk or call DWP on 0800 121 4600. Include supporting medical evidence and describe the child's needs in detail.