Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children
When your child turns 16
Your child will need to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) when they turn 16.
When they apply for PIP
Your child will get a letter inviting them to apply for PIP. The letter will be sent:
- shortly after their 16th birthday
- when they leave hospital, if they were in hospital on their 16th birthday
- about 20 weeks before their DLA award ends, if they were awarded DLA under special rules for people who might have 12 months or less to live
Your child’s DLA payments will stop unless they apply for PIP by the date given in the letter.
If they apply by the date given in the letter, they’ll continue to receive DLA until their claim is assessed.