Introduction
Are you a parent or caregiver of a child receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA)? You may be missing out on additional financial support and benefits that could help ease your financial burden. This article will guide you through the extra benefits you might qualify for and how to access them. If you need assistance navigating these options, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to help you understand your rights and resolve your legal issues. Discover how to maximise the support available to you and your family with Contend, the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
If you’re receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for your child, you might be eligible for additional financial support and benefits. This can help ease the financial burden of caring for a child with disabilities. Below, we’ll explore some of the extra benefits you may qualify for and how to access them.
Key Benefits You May Access
Cost of Living Payments
Recently, the government provided a one-time £150 Cost of Living Payment to families receiving DLA. To qualify for this payment, you needed to be receiving DLA as of April 1, 2023, or have applied for it by that date. If you believe you should have received this payment but haven’t, you can report a missing payment on the GOV.UK website.
Increased Payments for Other Benefits
Receiving DLA can also lead to higher payments for other benefits you might already be getting, such as:
- Child Tax Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Universal Credit
Additionally, families receiving DLA are exempt from the ‘benefit cap,’ which limits the total amount of benefits a household can receive. To find out how your DLA affects your other benefits, contact your benefits provider and have your DLA decision letter on hand.
Carer’s Allowance
If you care for your child with disabilities, you may qualify for Carer’s Allowance. To be eligible, you need to meet the following criteria:
- You earn less than £139 a week.
- You receive the middle or higher rate of the care component of DLA.
- You spend at least 35 hours a week caring for your child.
For more information on how to apply, visit the GOV.UK Carer’s Allowance page.
Travel Support
If your DLA includes the higher rate mobility component, you can benefit from:
- Exemption from vehicle tax, meaning you won’t have to pay it.
- A Blue Badge, which allows for easier parking.
- Access to a Motability vehicle, such as a car, powered wheelchair, or scooter.
Additional Help from Charities
The Family Fund is a charity that provides support to families with disabled or seriously ill children under 18 years old. If you’re on a low income and caring for such a child, you may be eligible for financial help. To check your eligibility and learn how to apply, visit the Family Fund website.
Managing Financial Strain
If you’re struggling to make ends meet, there are resources available to help with living costs. Look into options for assistance with bills and other essential expenses.
Next Steps
If you haven’t already, consider applying for DLA for your child. Understanding the full range of benefits and support available can significantly ease the challenges of caregiving.
By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that you’re receiving all the support you’re entitled to as a caregiver for a child with disabilities. If you have any questions or need further assistance, try Contend’s legal expert chat. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
For more info, check out some of our related articles:
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- Accessing Support Offers: A UK Carer’s Comprehensive Guide
- UK Rent Support Guide: Managing Costs, Universal Credit & Legal Aid
- Claim UK Benefits: Guide to Financial Support & Advice
