Disability Living Allowance

Disability Living Allowance

A person who has a disability condition will receive a social security benefit called Disability Living Allowance or DLA. Those who are under 65 years old and have a long term physical or mental impairment, or both that can affect day to day activities are the ones eligible to claim this benefit. Over 65 years old may get Attendance allowance, which is another social security benefit. Claiming for disability living allowance doesn't affect if you:

§ Are working or have spouse who are working
§ Are getting other benefits
§ Have savings
§ Haven't paid any national insurance contributions
§ Live alone with no one caring for you

Also, a medical examination is usually not needed when claiming for disability allowance. If, under certain circumstances, you are asked to provide one, this is because more information about your disability or illness is needed before a decision on your claim can be done. However, if you have a progressive disease and that you are not expected to live for more than six months, there are special rules for claiming to make sure you get your benefit easily and quickly.

The amount in which you are entitled of claiming for your disability living allowance depends on two components namely:

§ A care component - that is if you need assistance after yourself or supervision to keep you safe
§ A mobility component - that is if you can't walk or need help getting around

Some people may qualify to receive one component and others may get both. The care and mobility components are paid at different rates and are tax-free, depending on how your disability affects you. The following are the rates of DLA:

Care Component

§ Lowest rate - £ 16.50/week
§ Middle rate - £ 41.65/week
§ Highest rate - £ 62.25/ week

Mobility Component

§ Lower rate - £ 16.50/week
§ Higher rate - £ 43.45/ week

There are several ways in which to claim your disability allowance. But, first you have the qualification given above that corresponds to your condition. You can claim online or get a claim pack by:

§ Calling the Benefit Enquiry Line
§ Contacting your local social security office
§ Online at www.direct.gov.uk.

Usually, a disability allowance is paid directly into any account of your choice, as long as it accepts direct payment of benefits. If you prefer, you may be able to have someone else to collect your disability living allowance.

An additional allowance can greatly help with all the expenses at home, most especially in the case of disability individuals for they have extra needs than normal people do. The disability living allowance provided by the social security of UK government means a lot to families with disabled family member.