Disability Living Allowance (also known as DLA) is a benefit specifically for children up to 16. Once your child turns 16, you will receive a letter from DWP inviting your child to apply for PIP.

To be eligible for DLA your child must:
• Be under 16
• Need extra looking after compared to a child of the same age or has difficulty walking
• Be living in England or Wales when you claim

You can apply by either printing off and filling in the DLA form or calling the DLA helpline and asking for a printed form.

Please note that this is a very long form, with many ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions. If you need support with completing the form, I highly recommend getting someone to help you.

After you’ve applied

You should get a letter within 3 weeks that should explain how long it will take to get a decision.

If you’re successful

You’ll get a letter that will let you know when to expect your first payment.

If you disagree with the decision

You can ask for what’s known as a mandatory reconsideration – it is recommended you do this as soon as possible – as if you ask for a mandatory reconsideration after 1 month, it will be considered late and you will have to explain why this is the case. To ask for a mandatory reconsideration, you need to contact the appropriate benefits office, and you can contact them via:

• Your journal (for Universal Credit)
• By phone
• By letter
• Through filling in and returning this form

Disclaimer: To the best of my ability, the information on this page is correct at the time of writing.

Page updated: 16/12/2025