By Kieran Isgin
Some parents could receive as much as 拢187.45 per week for their child if they’re living with certain disabilities or health conditions. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can provide extra help for parents who need to spend more money for looking after their child under the age of 16 and has difficulties walking or needs more looking after than a child of the same age without a disability. Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free benefit that built up in two components which help to contribute to your total weekly payment. The care component and the mobility component both provide a minimum of 拢29.20 a week per component. While DLA is measured in a weekly rate, it is actually paid every four weeks on a Tuesday, unless a bank holiday disrupts the payment date. Because DLA is calculated in two components, your child may qualify for one or both components at different rates. Here’s a breakdown of the rates for each component: Which components your child will be eligible for will depend on the level of care they need. For example, they will be eligible for the highest rate of the care component if they require help or supervision throughout both day and night or if they’re nearing the end of life. Similarly, they could be eligible for the highest rate of the mobility component if they cannot walk or can only walk a short distance without severe discomfort. It is estimated that thousands of parents are missing out on DLA. In order to claim DLA for your child, they must first be under the age of 16 and have needs that require extra looking after or have difficulty walking. Furthermore, they must be living in England or Wales when the claim is made – you may still be eligible when making a claim abroad. You may also be able to claim DLA if your child is nearing the end of life, such as if they have a severe illness. Those nearing the end of life may also be able to get DLA more quickly and at a higher rate than they would otherwise. Parents making a claim on behalf of their children do not need to be employed in order to be considered. If your child has a disability or health condition, the following criteria must be applicable, according to official guidance: They must also have had these difficulties for at least three months and should expect them to last for at least six months (this doesn’t apply to children nearing the end of life). If the child the application is being made for currently lives in England or Wales you can apply by printing off and filling out a claim form or by phoning the Disability Living Allowance helpline on 0800 121 4600 and asking them for a printed form. Once the application has been sent off, you should receive a letter within three weeks that explains how long you will need to wait before a decision is made. Once a decision has been made, you will be sent another letter that will include the date of the first payment.