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
• Use the Relay UK service if you use British Sign Language

The helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

You can also download a DLA claim form from the GOV.UK website, fill it in and return it by post.

In Northern Ireland

Phone the Disability and Carer’s Service for a claim form:

• Telephone: 0800 587 0912
• Textphone: 0800 012 1574
• Use Relay UK service if you use Irish Sign Language or British Sign Language.
• Email: dcs.post@dfcni.gov.uk

The helpline is open Monday to Friday from 09.00 am to 4:00 pm.

You can also download a DLA claim form on the NI Direct website, fill it in and return it by post.

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. This is generally six weeks. 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.You can do this by contacting the Disability Services Centre (England and Wales) or the Disability and Carers Service (Northern Ireland).