Disability living allowance (DLA) is a non-means-tested, non-contributory benefit which can be claimed by a UK resident aged under 65 years who has care and/or mobility needs as a result of a mental or physical disability. It is tax free.
DLA is made up of a care component for people who need help with personal care needs and a mobility component for people who need help with walking difficulties.
Its detailed rules are exceptionally complex. This article should be treated as a simple guide. Further information can be found on the UK government web site [1] or from charities such as the Disability Alliance [2] or a Citizens Advice Bureau.
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DLA is restricted to people who fall into all of the in the following categories:
Individuals can qualify for DLA whether or not they are working. Earnings do not affect the amount of DLA received. People who are terminally ill typically qualify for the highest rate of Care component of DLA under what is termed "special rules".
DLA Care component is paid at one of 3 rates: lowest, middle and highest. From 13 April 2011 the rates are:
Care component | Weekly rate |
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Highest rate | £73.60 |
Middle rate | £49.30 |
Lowest rate | £19.55 |
Individuals are entitled to the lowest rate care component if they are so severely disabled that they:
Individuals are entitled to the middle rate care component if they are so severely disabled that they:
Individuals are entitled to the highest rate care component if they meet one of the day conditions and one of the night conditions for the middle rate care component.
DLA Mobility component is paid at one of 2 rates: lower and higher. From 13 April 2011 the rates are:
Mobility component | Weekly rate |
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Higher rate | £51.40 |
Lower rate | £19.55 |
Individuals are entitled to the lower rate mobility component if they are so severely mentally or physically disabled that they cannot walk outdoors on an unfamiliar route without guidance or supervision from another person most of the time.
Individuals are entitled to the higher rate mobility component if they:-
A claim is normally initiated by telephoning the Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 882200 (in N. Ireland, 0800 220674).
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