DLA Payments Increasing in July 2025 – See If You Now Qualify for Up to £184.30 Per Week

Starting July 7, 2025, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) payments in the UK have increased by 1.7% to help families cope with the rising cost of living. This cost-of-living adjustment aligns with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and raises the maximum weekly benefit to £187.45. That adds up to nearly £9,750 per year for families supporting a child with disabilities.

If you care for a child under 16 with mobility or care needs, now’s the time to review your claim—or apply if you haven’t already.

Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

DLA is a non-means-tested benefit designed to help families manage the additional costs of raising a child with a long-term illness or disability. While adults are now generally transitioned to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), DLA remains available for children under 16.

There are two parts to DLA:

• Care Component: For children needing extra help with personal care.
• Mobility Component: For children who need help moving around.

The amount you receive depends on how much support the child needs, not the family’s income or savings.

New DLA Rates for 2025/2026

Here’s a breakdown of the updated weekly rates after the July 2025 increase:

Care Component

Mobility Component

A child who qualifies for the highest care and mobility components will now receive £187.45 per week, which equals £749.80 every four weeks.

Who Can Claim DLA in 2025?

You may be eligible if:

• Your child is under 16 years old.
• The child has needed care or mobility support for at least 3 months.
• The condition is expected to continue for at least 6 more months.

Once a child turns 16, they’ll be invited to claim PIP. DLA continues during the transition period until a decision is made on the new benefit.

How to Apply for DLA in 2025

Here’s a simple step-by-step process to apply for the increased DLA payments:

Step 1

Visit gov.uk or call the DLA helpline to request a claim pack.

Step 2

Be honest and detailed. Describe what daily life is like on the worst days—not just the best.

Step 3

Useful documents include:

• GP or specialist letters
• Education Health Care Plans (EHCP)
• Reports from therapists or support workers

Step 4

Send the completed form and evidence to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). A decision usually arrives within 8 weeks.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Be specific: Give real examples of challenges your child faces.
• Include supporting documents: Don’t assume the DWP will contact your doctor.
• Save copies: Keep records of everything you submit.
• Ask for help: Charities like Scope and Contact can assist with your application.

What If Your Application Is Denied?

If your claim is denied or awarded at a lower rate than expected:

1. Request a Mandatory Reconsideration from DWP.
2. If that fails, appeal to a tribunal.
3. Seek help from local welfare advisors or disability advocacy services.

Other Benefits

Receiving DLA can open the door to several other benefits and support programs:

• Carer’s Allowance: If someone provides 35+ hours of care each week.
• Universal Credit: May include a disability premium.
• Child Tax Credit: Additional payments for children with disabilities.
• Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction: Available through your local council.
• Motability Scheme: If awarded the higher mobility component, you can lease a vehicle.

Real-World Example

Sarah’s 10-year-old son, diagnosed with autism, now qualifies for the middle care and lower mobility components. This gives them over £100 per week, helping with transport, sensory therapy, and school support. Without DLA, many of these essential services would be out of reach.

Global Programs

Compared to child disability programs in countries like France and Germany, the UK’s DLA is often more generous and accessible. Unlike many international systems, DLA does not require a strict income test and is based solely on the child’s needs. Add-on programs in each UK nation further boost support.

The July 2025 rise in DLA payments offers critical help to families across the UK. With the new weekly maximum of £187.45, parents and carers now have more financial breathing room to support their child’s needs. Whether you’re applying for the first time or already receiving DLA, staying informed about these updates ensures you receive everything you’re entitled to.

FAQs