Disability Living Allowance (DLA) - children - How do I claim Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?

In England or Wales

Phone the Disability Living Allowance helpline for a claim form:

Telephone 0800 121 4600
Textphone 0800 121 4523
Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

On the gov.uk website, you can also find a link to download a form to fill in and post and a link to claim using BSL.

In Northern Ireland

Phone the Disability and Carer’s Service for a claim form:
Telephone: 0800 587 0912
Textphone: 0800 012 1574

On the NI Direct website, you can also claim using BSL or download a claim form.

What documents will I need to claim Disability Living Allowance?

You should give your national insurance number . If you do not have a national insurance number , send in the claim form anyway to save delays. You may also be asked for proof of your identity such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence.

Part of the form must be filled in by someone who knows about your child's disability. This could be a health professional, social worker, teacher or carer.

When will the Disability Living Allowance claim begin?

A claim for DLA cannot be backdated. The date of your claim will be the date you call and ask for a claim form as long as you complete and return it in the time given. If you download a claim form, it will be the date your completed claim form is received.

Change of circumstances

You must report changes in circumstance which might affect your child's entitlement to this benefit.