DLA Update: New Weekly Payments Confirmed – Are You on the List?

New Weekly Payments Confirmed – Are You Included? The new Disability Living Allowance (DLA) update has been Confirmed, and numerous families and careers are asking themselves whether they’re included on the list to get these enhanced payments. This update aims to provide greater support for those caring for children with disabilities and assist in managing the increasing cost of living. In this article, we’ll break down the details of the new weekly payment rates, explain what DLA is all about, and provide practical advice for applicants—all in a friendly, yet authoritative tone.

The government has announced that starting in April 2025, DLA payments will see a modest increase of 1.7%, reflecting adjustments for inflation and ensuring that support remains sufficient for daily care and mobility needs. This news particularly affects families who have children younger than 16 who still remain on DLA while adults migrate to Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Continue reading to learn if you are qualified, what kind of changes there will be, and how you can ensure receiving the right payment.

What Is Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?

Disability Living Allowance is a tax‐free payment that supports families with children below 16 who have additional care or mobility requirements as a consequence of their disability or ongoing health issue. Although DLA is being replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for adults over time, it is still the main support system for children.

DLA is divided into two parts:

• Care Component: Assists with the additional personal care costs, including bathing, dressing, or eating.
• Mobility Component: Assists those who are in need of mobility or require special transport.

The components are organized into varying rates depending on the level of the needs. The maximum rate is up to £184.30 a week for the child with the greatest needs.

Details of the New Weekly Payment Rates

With the revision coming into force in April 2025, DLA payments will rise by 1.7%. The change is in line with inflation measures like the Consumer Price Index (CPI), so the benefit remains aligned with the increasing cost of living. Here’s a summary of the anticipated new rates:

For the Care Component:

• Lowest Rate: Rises from around £26.90 to £28.10 per week.
• Middle Rate: Rising from approximately £68.10 to £71.40 a week.
• Highest Rate: Rising from £101.75 to £106.20 a week.

For the Mobility Component:

• Lower Rate: Rising from £26.90 to £28.10 a week.
• Higher Rate: Rising from £71.00 to £74.10 a week.

These rises result in families at the top rate potentially having their weekly benefit approach the maximum of £184.30.

Who Is Eligible for DLA?

DLA eligibility is mainly for children under 16 with care or mobility needs because of a disability. The conditions are:

1. Age: The child should be below 16. Adults are now usually referred to for PIP (personal freedom of payment) if they have equal requirements.
2. Health condition/disability: The child must have a permanent health or disability that requires extra care or hinders mobility.
3. Duration: The situation should be present for 3 months and should be expected to persist for at least 6 months.
4. Evaluation of requirements: Requirements for care or dynamics are established through an evaluation process associated with medical evidence and in some examples, through interviews with medical professionals.

Families already received DLA for their children will remain in the receipt, and new requirements for the children should be treated in the same way. For those who are going from DLA to PIP (for people over 16), the Department of Work and Pension (DWP) will advise on how the conversion will work.

How to Apply for the DLA Update

The DLA application process is simple, but it’s important to go through each step meticulously to prevent delays or mistakes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

• Check the Criteria: Ensure that your child qualifies under the DLA eligibility criteria. Use the GOV.UK Benefits Checker for an initial check.
• Gather Documents: Collect supporting medical records, assessment reports, and any documents that detail your child’s care or mobility requirements.

Step 2: Select Your Application Method

• Online Application: The simplest way is to apply online through the GOV.UK website. The online process is easy and has step-by-step guidance.
• Telephone Application: Or call the DWP helpline to ask for a paper form or to get help filling in the online application.
• Paper Form: Ask for a paper form if you would rather complete your application by hand. You can request this form be sent to your nearest DWP office.

Step 3: Fill in the Application

• Accuracy Is Key: Give thorough and accurate information concerning your child’s condition and the needs of care. Ensure that you give all the relevant details that can impact the rate of payment.
• Attach Supporting Documents: Make sure you attach or provide copies of all relevant documents, including medical reports, prescriptions, and any communication with healthcare professionals.

Step 4: Submit the Application

• Review and Submit: Carefully review your application for accuracy before submitting it. Keeping a copy on file is a good practice.
• Confirmation: Once submitted, you should get a confirmation from the DWP. This could be an estimated processing timeline and any further actions, for example, going for an assessment.

Step 5: Go for an Assessment (if necessary)

• Medical or Needs Assessment: Some claims may necessitate an assessment to assess the degree of care and mobility requirements. Go for the scheduled appointment with all relevant documents.
• Follow-Up: If further information is required, provide it at once to prevent delays.

Step 6: Wait for the Decision

• Processing Time: The DWP will consider your application, and you will be informed of the decision. If your application is successful, the new rates of payment will take effect automatically from the date of effect.
• Appeals Process: If your application is unsuccessful or you do not agree with the payment rate, you can ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration.

Final Thought

DLA weekly rates for 2025 provide vital financial help to families with disabled children. If you are already getting DLA, look at your payment rate and make sure your information is current. If you think you’re eligible, take steps to claim these vital benefits and establish the assistance your child requires.

FAQ’s