DWP payment of up to £748 a month for some children
Children with certain health conditions could be eligible for more than £748 a month through the Department for Work and Pensions. The DWP provides extra support for parents who have increased childcare costs due to a child under 16 who has walking difficulties or needs more care than a child of the same age without a disability.
The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free benefit made up of two parts that contribute to your total weekly payment. Both the care part and the mobility part offer a minimum of £29.20 a week per part.
Even though DLA is worked out on a weekly basis, it's actually paid every four weeks on a Tuesday, unless a bank holiday changes the payment date.
As DLA is split into two parts, your child might qualify for one or both parts at different rates.
Here's a breakdown of the rates for each component...
Care component
Lowest rate - £29.20
Middle rate - £73.90
Highest rate - £110.40
Mobility component
Lower rate - £29.20
Higher rate - £77.05
Which parts your child can get will depend on their care needs. For example, they'll qualify for the highest rate of the care part if they need help or supervision all day and night or if they're nearing the end of life.
They could also be eligible for the highest rate of the mobility component if they're unable to walk or can only walk a short distance without severe discomfort. It's believed that thousands of parents are missing out on DLA.
Children eligible for DLA
To claim DLA for your child, they must be under 16 and need extra care or have mobility problems. They also need to be living in England or Wales when you make the claim - but you might still be able to claim if you're abroad.
You can also claim DLA if your child is nearing the end of their life because of a serious illness. Those nearing the end of life may get DLA more quickly and at a higher rate than usual.
Parents don't need to be working to claim on behalf of their kids. If your child has a disability or health condition, they need to meet the following criteria according to official guidance:.
These difficulties must have been around for at least three months and are expected to last for at least six months (this doesn't apply to children nearing the end of life).
How to apply for DLA
If the child you're claiming for lives in England or Wales, you can apply by printing off and filling in a claim form or by ringing the Disability Living Allowance helpline on 0800 121 4600 and asking for a printed form.
Once you've lodged your application, anticipate a letter landing on your doormat within three weeks. This will outline the waiting period before a verdict is made.
After the decision has been reached, another letter will wing its way to you, revealing the date of your initial payment.
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