Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a benefit paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to people who need help with mobility or personal care or both.
To make a new claim for DLA you must:
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be a UK resident
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be under 16 (your parent or guardian can apply on your behalf)
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and have lived in the UK for no less than 26 weeks in the 52 weeks before you claim.
DLA is tax free and it is not means-tested.
There are two components of DLA: a care component and a mobility component, each of which are paid at different rates according to how much help you need. It does not matter if the help is actually provided, so you do not have to have someone looking after you.
You can get a payment for care or for mobility or for both.
Personal Independence Payment replaces DLA for people aged 16 to 64
The last day for people aged 16 to 64 to make a new claim for DLA was 9 June 2013. Personal Independence Payment is now the benefit to claim if you are of that age and need help with daily living activities and getting out and about.
If you already receive DLA and are aged 16 to 64, find out more about when and how the introduction of Personal Independence Payment will affect you.
Can blind and partially sighted people receive DLA?
Yes, many people with a sight problem have successfully applied for DLA and we strongly encourage you to apply for it: you have nothing to lose and it may even increase other benefits you receive.
You will not automatically receive DLA - even if you are registered - but many blind and partially sighted people qualify for at least the lowest rate of both components.
More information, including how to claim DLA, is available in our factsheet.
How much is DLA worth?
The care component is paid at three weekly rates:
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Lower rate: £21.00
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Middle rate: £53.00
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Highest rate: £79.15
The mobility component is paid at two weekly rates:
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Lower rate: £21.00
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Higher rate: £55.25
How can I appeal a DLA claim decision?
If the DWP has turned down your claim for DLA, or awarded you less than you believe you are entitled to, you can challenge their decision. Please see our benefits appeals page for more information on how to appeal a DLA claim decision.
Further information
If you experience difficulties claiming DLA, disagree with a decision or want further information, please contact our Helpline for advice. Call 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk.
Please note that we can only give advice about benefits for people with sight loss and their carers or dependants.
You can also download our factsheet on Disability Living Allowance:
This information gives general guidance only and is not an authoritative statement of the law.