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
• Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 121 4600
• Users of British Sign Language (BSL): Video Relay Service

The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

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
• Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 587 0912
• Users of Irish Sign Language (ISL) or British Sign Language (BSL): Video Relay Service
• Email: dcs.post@dfcni.gov.uk

The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.

You can also download a DLA claim form on the NI Direct website, complete it 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).