Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children
When your child turns 16
Your child will need to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) when they turn 16.
When they apply for PIP
Your child will get a letter inviting them to apply for PIP. The letter will be sent:
- shortly after their 16th birthday
- when they leave hospital, if they were in hospital on their 16th birthday
- about 20 weeks before their DLA award ends, if they were awarded DLA under special rules for people who might have 12 months or less to live
Your child’s DLA payments will stop unless they apply for PIP by the date given in the letter.
If they apply by the date given in the letter, they’ll continue to receive DLA until their claim is assessed.
They should contact DLA to change the payment details and have DLA paid into their own bank account.
If your child needs help to manage their benefits
If your child is severely disabled and cannot manage their own benefits, you may be able to apply to manage their affairs on their behalf once they turn 16. This is called becoming an ‘appointee’.
Find out more about becoming an appointee and how to apply.
To apply to become an appointee for your child’s PIP claim, contact the PIP enquiry line at the Disability Service Centre.