DLA Rates Have Changed – Starting April 2025, the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) rates in the UK saw a fresh bump—bringing a bit more relief to families already stretched thin by the cost of living. Whether you’re caring for a child with special needs or you’ve been receiving DLA yourself, this article breaks down the changes in plain English, with some down-to-earth advice to help you make sense of your entitlements.
Now, let’s be real—benefits like DLA are lifelines, not luxuries. And when rates go up, even by a few pounds, it can make a real difference in your monthly budget.
DLA Rates Have Changed
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| What’s Changed | DLA rates increased by 1.7% starting April 2025 |
| Highest Care Component | Now £110.40/week |
| Highest Mobility Component | Now £77.05/week |
| Total Maximum Weekly Payment | £187.45 for eligible individuals |
| Who Gets It | Mostly children under 16 and a few adults still on legacy DLA |
| Replaced By | For most adults, PIP (Personal Independence Payment) |
| Official Source | UK Gov Benefits Page |
While the 2025 DLA rate hike might not be a game-changer for everyone, it’s a crucial lifeline for families dealing with disability-related expenses. Whether it helps cover therapy, transport, or just gives you a little breathing room—every pound counts.
But more importantly, know what you’re entitled to. A lot of people are missing out on top-up benefits and perks simply because they didn’t ask.
Stay sharp, double-check your award letters, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a welfare rights advisor if things feel confusing.
What Is DLA and Why It Still Matters in 2025
First off, let’s clear the air—DLA isn’t new, but it’s still very relevant for children and some adults who haven’t been transitioned to PIP yet.
The Disability Living Allowance is a benefit that helps with the extra costs of caring for someone with a disability. It’s split into two parts:
- Care Component – for help with personal care.
- Mobility Component – for help getting around.
Most new adult claimants now apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), but DLA is still issued to kids under 16 and a few adults on legacy support.
DLA Rates Breakdown: What You’ll Get in 2025?
Let’s talk money. Here’s how much you’ll get starting from April 2025:
Care Component Rates
- Highest Rate: £110.40/week
- Middle Rate: £73.90/week
- Lowest Rate: £29.20/week
Mobility Component Rates
- Higher Rate: £77.05/week
- Lower Rate: £29.20/week
So, if your child qualifies for both the highest care and highest mobility rates, your family can receive £187.45 weekly. That adds up to:
- £749.80 every 4 weeks
- £9,747.40 annually
Why Did the Rates Increase?
This ain’t some random bonus. The government adjusts benefit rates every April based on inflation and economic forecasts.
In 2025, the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation hovered around 3.4%, but the DLA increase was 1.7%—which might feel underwhelming. Still, it’s a nudge in the right direction, helping families keep up with rising utility bills, rent, and food prices.
Real-World Example: How It Helps a Family?
Let’s say you’re a parent raising an 11-year-old child with autism who needs constant supervision. The child receives:
- Middle Rate Care Component: £73.90/week
- Lower Rate Mobility Component: £29.20/week
That’s £103.10 per week, or £412.40 every four weeks.
For many, that can mean:
- Extra therapy sessions
- Specialized transport
- Additional caregiving help
- Emergency savings buffer
That’s real impact, especially in single-income households.
When Will You See the Payment?
The new DLA rates kicked in from April 8, 2025, and will be reflected in your next scheduled payment. DLA is typically paid every four weeks. If your payment fell before the rate change, you’ll see the new rate in the next cycle.
If you’re not sure when your payment lands, you can:
- Check your bank account for recent DWP deposits
- Contact the Disability Service Centre
- Log into your Universal Credit or benefit account online
Who Still Gets DLA in 2025?
DLA used to be the go-to benefit for all disabled people, but it’s now limited to:
- Children under 16
- Adults who haven’t transitioned to PIP yet
- Certain regions like Northern Ireland (where DLA is still processed separately in some cases)
Once a child turns 16, the DWP will invite them to apply for PIP instead.
How to Apply (Or Update) Your Claim?
You can’t apply for DLA if you’re over 16, but if your child qualifies, here’s what you do:
- Request a DLA pack online or by phone from DWP.
- Fill out detailed sections about the care or mobility needs.
- Attach medical reports, school observations, or therapist notes.
- Mail it to the address provided (no online submission available yet).
DLA applications can take up to 12 weeks, so apply early—especially if your child is newly diagnosed.
Extra Benefits You Might Be Missing Out On
Getting DLA can open doors to other benefits and perks, like:
- Carer’s Allowance (for someone who looks after the child at least 35 hours a week)
- Disabled Person’s Bus Pass
- Blue Badge for parking
- Higher Universal Credit payments
- Child Tax Credit premium
- Warm Home Discount Scheme (energy bills support)
- Exemption from Vehicle Tax (for those on higher mobility rate)
If you’re not sure what else you’re entitled to, use the free Benefits Calculator on Turn2us.
How to Report Changes in Circumstances?
If your child’s needs increase or decrease—or if you move, change schools, or get a new diagnosis—you must let the DWP know. Not reporting changes could lead to overpayments, penalties, or loss of entitlement.
You can call the Disability Living Allowance Helpline or write to the address on your last DLA letter.
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FAQs About DLA Rates Have Changed
Q1: Will I get back pay if the new rates started mid-cycle?
A: Nope. You won’t get retroactive payments. The new rate kicks in with your next scheduled payment after April 8, 2025.
Q2: How can I challenge a DLA decision?
A: You can request a Mandatory Reconsideration within one month of your decision letter. If you’re still unhappy, appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal.
Q3: Is the DLA taxable?
A: Nope. DLA is completely tax-free and doesn’t count as income for most means-tested benefits.
Q4: Do I need to reapply for DLA every year?
A: Not always. Some awards are ongoing, others are time-limited. Always check the end date on your award letter.
Q5: I care for my child full-time. Can I get anything?
A: Yes! If your child gets the middle or highest rate care component, you could qualify for Carer’s Allowance—around £81.90 per week.
Q6: Can I get help with energy bills or travel if I get DLA?
A: Absolutely. You might qualify for help through the Warm Home Discount Scheme, free school transport, or exemption from vehicle tax.
