The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a vital benefit provided by the UK government to support individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions. As of 2021, the DLA rates have undergone changes, and it’s essential to understand these updates to ensure you’re receiving the correct amount of support. In this article, we’ll delve into the 2021 DLA rates, explaining the different components, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
Understanding the Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
The DLA is a tax-free benefit designed to help individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions cover the extra costs associated with their condition. The benefit is divided into two components: the Care Component and the Mobility Component.
The Care Component
The Care Component is designed to support individuals who require assistance with daily living tasks, such as washing, dressing, and eating. The rate of the Care Component varies depending on the level of care required.
2021 Care Component Rates
| Rate | Weekly Amount |
| — | — |
| Lowest Rate | £23.60 |
| Middle Rate | £59.20 |
| Highest Rate | £89.15 |
The Mobility Component
The Mobility Component is designed to support individuals who have difficulty walking or need help with mobility. The rate of the Mobility Component also varies depending on the level of mobility required.
2021 Mobility Component Rates
| Rate | Weekly Amount |
| — | — |
| Lower Rate | £23.60 |
| Higher Rate | £62.25 |
Eligibility Criteria for DLA
To be eligible for DLA, you must meet certain criteria:
- Be under 16 years old (for children) or 16-64 years old (for adults)
- Have a disability or long-term health condition that affects your daily life
- Require assistance with daily living tasks or have difficulty with mobility
- Be a UK resident
- Have been a UK resident for at least 2 of the last 3 years (for adults)
How to Apply for DLA
To apply for DLA, you’ll need to complete a claim form, which can be obtained from the UK government’s website or by contacting the Disability Living Allowance helpline. You’ll need to provide detailed information about your condition, including:
- Your medical history
- Your daily living needs
- Your mobility requirements
- Your care needs
What to Expect After Applying
After submitting your claim, you’ll receive a decision letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). If your claim is successful, you’ll receive a payment schedule outlining the amount and frequency of your DLA payments. If your claim is unsuccessful, you can appeal the decision.
DLA and Other Benefits
DLA can be claimed alongside other benefits, such as:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Universal Credit
However, it’s essential to note that claiming DLA may affect the amount of other benefits you receive.
DLA and Tax Credits
DLA is a tax-free benefit, but it may affect your tax credits. If you’re receiving DLA, you may be eligible for a higher rate of tax credits.
DLA and Employment
Receiving DLA does not necessarily mean you’re unable to work. Many individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions are able to work and receive DLA. However, it’s essential to inform the DWP if you start or stop work, as this may affect your DLA payments.
DLA and Education
If you’re a student, you may be eligible for DLA. However, you’ll need to meet the eligibility criteria and provide evidence of your disability or long-term health condition.
Conclusion
The 2021 DLA rates provide essential support for individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions. Understanding the different components, eligibility criteria, and application process can help you navigate the system and ensure you’re receiving the correct amount of support. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or have questions about the application process, contact the Disability Living Allowance helpline for guidance.
By staying informed and up-to-date on the latest DLA rates and regulations, you can ensure you’re receiving the support you need to live a fulfilling and independent life.
What are the 2021 DLA rates and how do they compare to previous years?
The 2021 DLA rates were announced by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in March 2021. The rates saw a slight increase from the previous year, with the weekly rate for the mobility component rising from £62.25 to £62.55 for the higher rate and from £23.60 to £23.70 for the lower rate. The care component also saw an increase, with the weekly rate rising from £89.15 to £89.60 for the highest rate, from £60.00 to £60.10 for the middle rate, and from £23.60 to £23.70 for the lowest rate.
These increases were in line with the government’s commitment to uprate benefits in line with inflation. The 2021 DLA rates were also subject to a review to ensure that they continued to meet the needs of claimants. The review took into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the cost of living and the needs of disabled people.
Who is eligible for DLA and how do I apply?
To be eligible for DLA, you must be under 16 years old and have a disability or health condition that affects your daily life. You can apply for DLA if you need help with personal care, such as washing, dressing, or using the toilet, or if you have difficulty getting around. You can also apply if you have a mental health condition or learning disability that affects your ability to care for yourself.
To apply for DLA, you will need to fill out a claim form, which can be downloaded from the GOV.UK website or obtained by contacting the DLA helpline. You will need to provide information about your disability or health condition, as well as details about your care needs and mobility. You may also need to provide supporting evidence, such as medical reports or statements from healthcare professionals.
How is DLA assessed and what are the different components?
DLA is assessed based on the level of care and mobility needs you have. The care component is assessed based on the level of help you need with personal care, such as washing, dressing, and using the toilet. The mobility component is assessed based on your ability to get around, including your ability to walk and use public transport.
There are three rates for the care component: the highest rate, the middle rate, and the lowest rate. The mobility component also has two rates: the higher rate and the lower rate. The rate you receive will depend on the level of your care and mobility needs. You may be eligible for one or both components, depending on your needs.
Can I get DLA if I am already receiving other benefits?
Yes, you can get DLA even if you are already receiving other benefits. However, the amount of DLA you receive may be affected by the other benefits you are receiving. For example, if you are receiving Income Support or Universal Credit, the amount of DLA you receive may be taken into account when calculating your overall benefit entitlement.
It’s also worth noting that receiving DLA can affect your entitlement to other benefits. For example, if you are receiving DLA, you may be eligible for a higher rate of other benefits, such as Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction. You should inform the relevant authorities if you are awarded DLA, as this may affect your entitlement to other benefits.
How do I appeal a DLA decision if I disagree with it?
If you disagree with a DLA decision, you can appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal. You will need to fill out an appeal form, which can be downloaded from the GOV.UK website or obtained by contacting the DLA helpline. You will need to provide reasons for your appeal and any supporting evidence.
The tribunal will review your case and make a decision based on the evidence provided. You may be required to attend a hearing, where you can present your case in person. If the tribunal upholds the original decision, you may be able to appeal to the Upper Tribunal. It’s recommended that you seek advice from a benefits advisor or solicitor before appealing a DLA decision.
Can I get DLA if I am living abroad?
If you are a UK citizen living abroad, you may be eligible for DLA. However, the rules can be complex, and eligibility will depend on your individual circumstances. Generally, you must have been living in the UK when you applied for DLA and have been receiving the benefit when you moved abroad.
You should inform the DLA office if you are planning to move abroad, as this may affect your entitlement to the benefit. You may be required to provide information about your living arrangements and care needs while abroad. In some cases, you may be able to continue receiving DLA while living abroad, but the amount you receive may be affected.
How do I report a change in my circumstances that may affect my DLA?
If your circumstances change, you must inform the DLA office as soon as possible. This includes changes to your care needs, mobility, or living arrangements. You can report a change in your circumstances by contacting the DLA helpline or by writing to the DLA office.
You will need to provide details of the change and any supporting evidence. The DLA office will review your case and make a decision based on the new information. If your circumstances have changed, you may be eligible for a higher or lower rate of DLA. In some cases, you may no longer be eligible for the benefit.