Updated 25 July 2025
How to claim disability living allowance
Disability living allowance (DLA) is a benefit that helps cover the extra care costs of looking after children under the age of 16 who have a disability or health condition.
You can get a DLA application form by:
- calling the DLA helpline
- downloading one from the government website
Calling is better because your payments will be backdated to the date you call, providing you return the completed form within six weeks.
If you’re waiting for evidence, e.g. a letter from your doctor, don’t delay returning the form if it’ll mean you’ll miss the six-week deadline.
Instead, include a note saying when you expect to send the additional evidence.
If you download the form or return it late, you'll get paid from the date the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) receives your application.
Get guidance on key questions in the DLA form and hints and tips on how to fill it in.
Where do I send my DLA application?
Send your completed application form to:
Freepost DWP DLA Child
What happens after applying for disability living allowance?
You should get a letter (or a text message) from DWP within two weeks to confirm they've received your application.
If you don’t hear anything after two weeks, call the DLA helpline.
You'll usually get a decision letter within three months.
If your claim is approved, this letter will explain how much you’ll receive and for how long.
If it’s not approved, the letter will explain why.
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What happens when my child turns 16?
You’ll get a letter from DWP before your child’s sixteenth birthday explaining that they’ll need to switch from DLA to personal independent payment.
You’ll need to complete a new form and your child will have to attend an assessment.
Learn more about Disability living allowance
Written by: Michelle Kight
Financial content writer
Michelle is a qualified journalist who spent over seven years writing for her local online newspaper. Having grown up in some of the North West’s most deprived areas, she has a first-hand and empathetic understanding of what it means to face serious money worries. With a strong interest in mental health issues, she is a keen advocate of boosting the accessibility of financial wellness services.
Financial Promotions Manager
Last updated: 25 July 2025
Written by: Michelle Kight
Financial content writer
Last updated: 25 July 2025