Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults - What is Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is money for people who have extra care needs or mobility needs (difficulty getting around) as a result of a disability. There are two parts called components: the care component and the mobility component. You may qualify for one or both of these.

You can no longer make a new claim for DLA if you are 16 or over.

If you are under pension age, you may be able to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead (or Adult Disability Payment if you live in Scotland).

If you are over pension age, you may be able to claim Attendance Allowance instead. If you have a child with an illness, injury or disability, see our Disability Living Allowance - children guide. 

If you already get DLA, you will be transferred onto Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment, even if you have been given an indefinite or lifetime award of DLA, unless:

• You are in England, Scotland or Wales and you were born on or before 8 April 1948; or
• You are in Northern Ireland and you were born on or before 20 June 1951.

Applies to: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

Type of benefit: Non means tested

Taxable: No

Administered by: Disability and Carers Service, Department for Work and Pensions