Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults - Can I get Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?

Adults over 16 can no longer make new claims for Disability Living Allowance.

The rules below apply to existing claims, and are presented for reference.

You must have had the care and/or mobility needs for at least three months before you claim Disability Living Allowance and expect to have them for at least six months after.

Care needs

You have care needs if you need help with things like getting dressed, going to the toilet or cooking a main meal for yourself. Or you must be supervised so you do not get hurt. It could include help outside the home. It does not matter if you do not actually get this help as long as you can show you need it.

Mobility needs

You have mobility needs if you cannot walk or you walk with difficulty. Or you cannot walk outdoors or on an unfamiliar route without help from someone else most of the time. This can be because of a physical or mental disability. It does not matter if you do not actually get this help, as long as you can show you need it. 

Rules for people who have a terminal illness

If you have a terminal illness and your doctors say that you are reasonably expected to die within twelve months there are special rules which mean you can get the highest rate care component of Disability Living Allowance straight away. You do not have to have care needs for three months before you claim or expect to have them for six months after.

You will need to ask your doctor/healthcare professional for a form called SR1 and fill in the special rules section of the Disability Living Allowance claim form. If you have difficulty walking, you must also fill in the mobility section of the claim form.

Another person, such as your partner, relative or friend, can apply for Disability Living Allowance on your behalf without your knowledge under the special rules. Even if someone else makes the claim for you, the money will be paid to you.

Updated: April 2023