Disability Living Allowance

This is a benefit for disabled people who claim before their 65th birthday and find it difficult to care for themselves. This might be because

• they need help to cook, or find things like dressing or washing very difficult
• they need someone to keep an eye on them to make sure that they are safe
• they have a terminal illness
• they have problems walking when out of doors

There are two parts to the benefit:

• a care component
• a mobility component

Getting the middle or highest rate of the care component may mean that you as a carer qualify for Carer's Allowance.

Getting the higher rate of the mobility component can mean that the person you look after can get a blue badge for their car from social services and exemption from road tax from the Disability Benefits Unit (tel: 0845 712 3456).

People who are not in receipt of DLA (for example, some people over the age of 65), but who have substantial difficulties with mobility, may also be eligible for a blue badge.  

The care component is paid at one of 3 rates. There is no lower age-limit unless the benefit is paid because you cannot cook - where the age-limit is 16 years.

The mobility component is for people who because of their illness or disability have difficulties walking. It is paid at one of 2 rates.

The higher rate can be paid from the age of 3; the lower rate from the age of 5.

Rules for application:

• You must claim the benefit before your 65th birthday.  If you are 65 or over, then you may be able to claim Attendance Allowance.
• You must have had the problems you describe for at least three months and be likely to have them for the next six months (unless you have a terminal illness, when benefit can be paid immediately);
• You must claim before your 65th birthday, but can continue to be paid after you reach 65;
• You can get the benefit whatever your other income, savings or other benefits;
• If you get Disability Living Allowance, you may be able to get more Income Support, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit.

How to claim.

Ring the Department of Work and Pensions' enquiry line for carers and disabled people on 0800 882200.