The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) remains one of the most important benefits for people with long-term health conditions or disabilities in the UK. As 2025 begins, the UK Government has confirmed that DLA rates will rise again in line with inflation, ensuring that those who depend on it can better manage the rising cost of living. The latest update brings a significant increase, with some recipients now eligible for as much as £184.30 per week depending on their circumstances. Here’s a full breakdown of the changes, new rates, eligibility, and what you can expect this year.
What is DLA and Who Can Get It
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free benefit provided to help with the extra costs of living with a disability or long-term illness. It’s available primarily for children under 16 in the UK, as most adults now receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead. However, some adults who were already receiving DLA before the transition to PIP may still be on the benefit.
DLA is split into two parts — the Care Component and the Mobility Component. You may qualify for one or both, depending on your condition and how it affects your daily life. The rate you get depends on the level of help you need.
DLA Payment Increase 2025 Overview
The government’s April 2025 increase follows the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate of inflation, meaning most benefits, including DLA, will rise by around 6.7%. This rise helps households cope with increased living costs, including energy bills, transport, and food prices.
With this change, the highest possible DLA payment now reaches £184.30 per week. This is welcome news for families struggling with ongoing financial pressure.
New DLA Rates from April 2025
From April 2025, the updated weekly DLA rates are as follows:
Care Component
- Highest rate: £101.75
- Middle rate: £68.20
- Lowest rate: £27.65
Mobility Component
- Higher rate: £82.55
- Lower rate: £32.55
If you qualify for both the highest care and mobility rates, your total weekly DLA payment will be £184.30 — one of the largest increases in recent years.
Who Can Qualify for DLA in 2025
To qualify for DLA in 2025, you must meet certain criteria based on your age, condition, and the level of help you need.
You can usually claim DLA if:
- You are under 16 years old.
- You live in England, Scotland, or Wales (Northern Ireland has its own system).
- You have lived in the UK for at least 6 of the last 12 months.
- You have difficulty walking or need extra care due to a disability or illness.
Children who have significant mobility issues or require supervision for their daily activities may be eligible. The allowance helps parents and carers manage additional costs such as therapy, equipment, or transport.
How to Know If You’re Eligible for £184.30 a Week
Not everyone will qualify for the full £184.30 weekly payment. To receive that amount, you must be awarded both the highest rate of the care component and the higher rate of the mobility component.
Generally, you could qualify for the highest care rate if:
- You need help throughout the day and night.
- You need constant supervision to avoid danger to yourself or others.
- You are terminally ill with a life expectancy of six months or less.
For the higher mobility rate, you must have severe difficulty walking, or be virtually unable to walk due to a physical or mental condition. Children who cannot walk or need special equipment may also qualify.
DLA and Cost of Living in 2025
The UK’s cost of living continues to rise, with households facing higher bills and food prices. For many families of disabled children, DLA is a vital source of support. The 2025 increase, while modest, will make a real difference for those balancing disability-related costs such as medical needs, transport, and home adjustments.
Parents and carers often face additional expenses like mobility aids, medical appointments, and specialist diets. With this year’s increase, families receiving the top DLA rate could gain over £480 extra per year.
How to Apply for DLA in 2025
If you’re applying for DLA for a child under 16, you can start by filling out the DLA claim form (DLA1A Child). You can get this form from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) either online or by calling their helpline.
Once you apply, you’ll need to provide details about the child’s medical condition, how it affects their daily activities, and what kind of help they need. Medical evidence, reports, or letters from doctors, schools, or therapists can strengthen your application.
The DWP will then review your claim and may contact you for additional information before making a decision.
What Happens After You Apply
Once your DLA application is submitted, it can take several weeks for a decision. If approved, payments are usually made every four weeks directly into your bank account. You’ll also receive a backdated payment covering the time since you first applied.
If your claim is rejected, you can ask for a mandatory reconsideration — a review of the decision — and if still unsuccessful, you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
How DLA Differs from PIP
DLA is being gradually replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for adults aged 16 and over. The main difference is that PIP assessments focus on how your disability affects your daily life and mobility rather than the diagnosis itself.
However, children under 16 remain eligible for DLA. When they turn 16, they will usually be invited to apply for PIP instead. The transition from DLA to PIP can affect payment rates, so families should prepare in advance.
When Will the New DLA Rates Start
The new DLA payment rates will officially come into effect from April 2025, in line with the start of the new tax year. Current recipients don’t need to reapply — the DWP will automatically adjust payments to reflect the new rates.
You’ll see the increase in your DLA payment after the first full payment cycle following April.
How to Report a Change in Circumstances
If your or your child’s condition changes — whether it improves or worsens — you must inform the DWP as soon as possible. Failure to do so could result in overpayments or underpayments.
Examples of changes you should report include:
- Needing more or less help with daily activities
- Changes in mobility
- Hospital stays
- Moving abroad or changing address
Keeping your information up to date ensures you receive the correct amount of DLA support.
Additional Benefits You May Get with DLA
Receiving DLA can also unlock access to other benefits and discounts. For example:
- Carer’s Allowance: If someone spends at least 35 hours a week caring for you, they may qualify.
- Motability Scheme: You can exchange your mobility component for a car, scooter, or powered wheelchair.
- Blue Badge: Helps with parking access for disabled drivers or passengers.
- Council Tax reductions or free travel passes: Available in some local areas.
Why This DLA Increase Matters
The 2025 DLA increase shows the government’s effort to support disabled people and their families during difficult economic times. For many, this isn’t just extra income — it’s essential financial relief that helps them maintain independence, dignity, and stability.
Families who rely on DLA often face unique challenges that require ongoing care, attention, and resources. The new £184.30 maximum payment reflects an important recognition of these needs.
Final Thoughts
The DLA payment increase in 2025 is more than a routine adjustment — it’s a necessary lifeline for thousands of families managing disability-related costs. With higher rates, simpler eligibility, and continued access to additional support programs, the year ahead promises a bit more relief for those who need it most.
If you’re already receiving DLA, you don’t need to take any action — the DWP will automatically update your payments from April 2025. But if you haven’t applied yet and think you or your child might qualify, now is the perfect time to check your eligibility and start your claim.
A few hundred pounds a month can make a life-changing difference — and this year’s rise ensures that support continues to meet the needs of disabled people across the UK.