A significant update is coming for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) recipients as new weekly rates take effect from July 2025.
The 1.7% increase is part of the UK government’s annual benefits adjustment plan to reflect rising inflation and living costs, offering greater financial support to children under 16 and a select group of older adults.
While most adult claimants have been moved to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), DLA remains available for children and adults born before July 8, 1948. This guide breaks down who qualifies, the new payment rates, and how to claim the benefit.
2025 Disability Living Allowance Overview
Here is a quick summary of key updates and eligibility rules:
| Overview | 2025/26 Update |
|---|---|
| Weekly Payment Range | £29.20 to £187.45 |
| Annual Maximum Payment | Up to £9,747.40 |
| Eligible Age Groups | Children under 16; adults born before July 1948 |
| Application Method | GOV.UK DLA Form or 0800 121 4600 |
| Additional Linked Benefits | Carer’s Allowance, Housing Benefit, Tax Credits |
| Adult Replacement Benefit | Personal Independence Payment (PIP) |
Updated Weekly DLA Payment Rates – July 2025
Disability Living Allowance is made up of two components: Care and Mobility. Individuals can qualify for one or both, depending on their needs.
Care Component
| Rate | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Highest | £110.40 |
| Middle | £73.90 |
| Lowest | £29.20 |
Mobility Component
| Rate | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Higher | £77.05 |
| Lower | £29.20 |
The maximum weekly payout is £187.45, which totals to £749.80 every four weeks or £9,747.40 per year.
Who Can Claim Disability Living Allowance?
Children Under 16
To qualify, a child must meet the following conditions:
- Need more supervision or personal care than other children of the same age
- Experience mobility issues that require support
- Have had the condition for at least 3 months, and expect it to continue for at least 6 more months
Children with terminal illnesses may be eligible for fast-tracked claims, bypassing standard wait times.
Adults
Adults cannot make new claims for DLA unless:
- They were born before July 8, 1948
- They have not yet been transitioned to PIP
All other adults over 16 must apply for Personal Independence Payment instead.
How to Apply for DLA in 2025
Step 1: Get the Form
- Download it via GOV.UK or request one by calling 0800 121 4600
Step 2: Complete the Form
- Provide detailed information about the child’s daily care and mobility needs
- Include real-life examples or use a care diary
Step 3: Submit the Form
- Send it to the address provided. If the form was requested via phone, your claim may be backdated to the call date.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
- Most claims are processed in 12 weeks, but delays may occur if medical reports are needed.
Additional Financial Support Linked to DLA
Carer’s Allowance
You may be eligible if you:
- Care for someone receiving middle or highest rate of the care component
- Provide 35 hours or more care each week
- Earn less than £151 per week (after expenses)
- Are 16+ and not in full-time education
Carer’s Allowance for 2025 is set at £83.30 per week.
Other Benefits Enhanced by DLA
Receiving DLA may boost your entitlement to:
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Council Tax Reduction
These benefits often increase automatically when DLA is awarded. Ensure the DWP or HMRC is updated if your household begins receiving DLA to trigger any reassessments.
Starting in July 2025, the increased Disability Living Allowance rates will offer improved financial relief to families supporting children or older adults with care needs.
With weekly payments now reaching up to £187.45, the uplift ensures DLA keeps pace with inflation and continues to be a crucial form of support for those most in need.
FAQs
How much is the Disability Living Allowance in 2025?
Weekly payments range from £29.20 to £187.45, depending on the care and mobility support required.
Who qualifies for the new DLA rates?
Children under 16 with care or mobility needs, and adults born before July 8, 1948 who haven’t transitioned to PIP.
Do I need to reapply to receive the new rates?
No. Existing DLA recipients will automatically receive the increased rates starting from July 2025.