1. Introduction
In June 2025, the UK government officially increased Disability Living Allowance (DLA) payments to help individuals and families cope with rising living costs and health-related expenses. With new weekly rates reaching up to £184.30, this increase provides significant financial support to those dealing with long-term illnesses or disabilities.
If you or someone in your family has a disability or a health condition that affects daily life, you may now qualify for higher or new DLA payments.
2. What Is DLA?
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It’s designed to help people with the extra costs associated with physical or mental disabilities.
While DLA is being phased out for adults and replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP), children under 16 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland still receive DLA.
DLA consists of two components:
- Care Component – for those needing help with personal care
- Mobility Component – for those who need assistance getting around

3. Why the Payment Increase in June 2025 Matters
The June 2025 increase in DLA payments comes amid:
- High inflation and living costs
- Increased pressure on carers and families
- The government’s commitment to disability support enhancement
This increase ensures that claimants can better manage everyday expenses like:
- Transport to medical appointments
- Special dietary needs
- Assistive technology
- Home care services
- Special schooling expenses for children
4. Understanding the New Rates: Up to £184.30 Per Week
As of June 2025, eligible recipients can receive up to £184.30 per week, depending on the level of support required.
Component | Rate Type | Amount (Weekly) |
---|---|---|
Care Component | Highest | £101.75 |
Middle | £68.10 | |
Lowest | £27.80 | |
Mobility Component | Higher | £82.55 |
Lower | £31.20 | |
Maximum Weekly Total | — | £184.30 |
This increase reflects both cost-of-living adjustments and additional government investment in health-related benefits.
5. Eligibility Criteria for DLA in 2025
You must:
- Be under 16 years old (DLA is for children only in most parts of the UK)
- Have had the disability or health issue for at least 3 months
- Expect it to last at least 6 more months
- Need extra help with mobility or daily care
Care Component Eligibility:
You must need help with:
- Eating, washing, dressing
- Using the toilet
- Medication management
- Constant supervision to avoid danger
Mobility Component Eligibility:
You must:
- Be physically unable or virtually unable to walk
- Need guidance or supervision outdoors
- Have severe mental impairments that affect mobility
6. How to Apply for DLA
Step-by-step Application Process:
- Request a DLA Claim Pack:
- Call DLA Helpline or apply online
- Pack will be posted to you
- Complete the Form Thoroughly:
- Be detailed about your child’s care and mobility needs
- Use examples from daily life
- Send Supporting Documents:
- Doctor’s letters
- School reports
- Therapy assessments
- Post Application:
- Send to the address provided in the claim pack
- Wait for Assessment Decision:
- Could take up to 3 months

7. Key Documents Needed
Document | Purpose |
---|---|
Birth Certificate | Proof of child’s age |
Medical Reports | Evidence of condition |
Therapist/GP Letters | Proof of care needs |
Educational Reports | Show learning or behavioural support |
Personal Statement | Optional but useful to explain in your own words |
8. Medical Assessments and Their Role
Though DLA doesn’t always require a face-to-face assessment, in complex cases, you may be contacted for:
- Clarification calls
- Requests for additional evidence
- Independent medical assessments (especially for high-value claims)
It’s important to answer accurately and honestly, keeping the focus on daily challenges, not just diagnoses.
9. How the DLA Increase Impacts Claimants
The increased payments can:
- Ease financial strain on parents or carers
- Fund respite care or special equipment
- Help with transport costs to therapy, schools, or hospitals
- Provide better educational opportunities
- Increase a family’s overall quality of life
For many families, even the lowest tier payments can make a meaningful difference.
10. DLA for Children vs. Adults
- In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, new DLA claims are only for children under 16.
- If your child turns 16, they may be moved to Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
- In Scotland, Child Disability Payment (CDP) has replaced DLA for new claimants.
11. DLA and Other Benefits
Receiving DLA can unlock access to additional financial and non-financial support, such as:
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
Carer’s Allowance | For those caring 35+ hours/week for a DLA recipient |
Universal Credit | DLA can increase UC entitlement |
Disabled Facilities Grant | Helps modify homes |
Travel Discounts | Bus passes, Motability Scheme |
Housing Benefit | Higher eligibility thresholds |
Council Tax Reduction | Available in some councils |
12. Backdated Payments and Appeals
If your claim is successful:
- Payments are backdated to the date of application
- In some cases, if evidence shows the disability existed earlier, you may be owed additional payments
If your application is rejected:
- Request a mandatory reconsideration
- If still rejected, proceed to a benefits tribunal
Always seek help from disability advocacy services before appealing.
13. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake | How to Avoid |
---|---|
Incomplete forms | Fill every section, even if repetitive |
Downplaying needs | Be honest and detailed about struggles |
No supporting documents | Include as much medical and school info as possible |
Missed deadlines | Note all key dates and submit early |
Ignoring post from DWP | Respond to letters quickly to avoid delays or rejections |
14. Budgeting With DLA: Making It Work
Here’s how families are using DLA in 2025:
- £50/week – Transport to hospital, school, or therapy
- £40/week – Special diet needs and meal preparation
- £30/week – Respite sitter or in-home caregiver
- £20/week – Sensory toys, devices, learning aids
- £10/week – Energy and heating bills
Totaling £150+, these costs reflect how DLA directly supports the child’s daily quality of life.
15. Real-Life Case Studies (Fictionalized)
1. Jayden, Age 10 – Autism & ADHD
- Awarded middle care and lower mobility
- Family receives £99.30/week
- Funds used for: travel, therapy sessions, sensory tools
2. Aanya, Age 6 – Cerebral Palsy
- Awarded highest care and higher mobility
- Weekly total: £184.30
- Used for: wheelchair transport, full-time school aide
3. Leo, Age 13 – Learning Difficulties
- Receives lowest care component only
- Weekly payment: £27.80
- Helps with learning software and evening tutor
16. Benefits Table: June 2025 Updated DLA Rates
Component | Type | Weekly Amount |
---|---|---|
Care | Highest | £101.75 |
Middle | £68.10 | |
Lowest | £27.80 | |
Mobility | Higher | £82.55 |
Lower | £31.20 | |
Combined Max | — | £184.30 |
Note: All figures are tax-free and paid every 4 weeks.
17. Conclusion
The June 2025 rise in DLA payments is a powerful affirmation of support for disabled children and their families. With up to £184.30 per week now available, thousands of families are better equipped to meet the unique challenges disability presents.
Whether you’re new to DLA or considering reapplying due to the increase, it’s crucial to act quickly, stay informed, and ensure your child receives the care they deserve.
18. FAQs
1. Who can apply for DLA in 2025?
DLA is available only for children under 16 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Adults are redirected to PIP.
2. Is DLA taxable income?
No. DLA is entirely tax-free and does not affect your tax code or liability.
3. Can I receive DLA and Carer’s Allowance?
Yes, if you care for a DLA recipient for 35+ hours/week, you may claim Carer’s Allowance.
4. What happens when my child turns 16?
They will be invited to apply for PIP. There may be a reassessment process.
5. How long do DLA claims last?
The award length varies—typically 1 to 5 years. The DWP notifies you when it’s time for renewal.