If you’re receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA), you might be wondering how much your payments will increase in 2024.
Like many other benefits, DLA rates are adjusted annually to keep pace with the rising cost of living.
This article will break down the DLA rate increases for 2024 and provide important information to help you understand how this affects your finances.
How Much Have DLA Rates Increased in 2024?
DLA rates increased by 6.7% in April 2024.
This adjustment aligns with the overall increase in the cost of living, as measured by inflation.
It’s important to note that while many other benefits saw a 10.1% increase, DLA falls under a different category.
What is the DLA?
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free benefit designed to support individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
It’s divided into two components:
- Care component: This covers additional costs associated with personal care needs.
- Mobility component: This helps with extra expenses related to getting around.
Who is Eligible for DLA?
To be eligible for DLA, you must be under State Pension age and have a disability or long-term health condition that significantly affects your ability to care for yourself or get around.
The amount you receive depends on the severity of your condition.
What Are the Different DLA Rates?
DLA rates vary depending on the level of care and mobility needs.
There are three care component rates and two mobility component rates.
- Care component:
- Highest rate: For individuals requiring continuous supervision or assistance with bodily functions.
- Middle rate: For those needing prompting or supervision to ensure personal safety.
- Lowest rate: For individuals needing help with washing, dressing, or feeding.
- Mobility component:
- Higher rate: For those unable to walk or with very limited ability to walk.
- Lower rate: For individuals with difficulty walking but can still walk.
How Much is the DLA Increase for Each Rate?
The following table shows the DLA rates before and after the 6.7% increase in April 2024:
| Component | Rate before increase | Rate after increase | Increase |
| Care – Highest | £101.75 | £108.55 | £6.80 |
| Care – Middle | £68.10 | £72.65 | £4.55 |
| Care – Lowest | £26.90 | £28.70 | £1.80 |
| Mobility – Higher | £71.00 | £75.75 | £4.75 |
| Mobility – Lower | £26.90 | £28.70 | £1.80 |
How Will the DLA Increase Affect My Finances?
The increase in DLA rates can provide some relief from rising living costs.
However, the impact on your finances will depend on your overall circumstances.
You must consider how the extra money will affect other benefits or tax credits you might be receiving.
How Can I Check if I’m Getting the Correct DLA Amount?
If you’re unsure whether you’re receiving the correct DLA amount, you can contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to request a check.
It’s also advisable to review your circumstances regularly to ensure you’re claiming the correct rate.
How Do I Claim DLA?
If you believe you’re eligible for DLA, you can claim online or by phone.
You’ll need to provide information about your disability or health condition and how it affects your daily life.
Can I Appeal a DLA Decision?
If you disagree with a DLA decision, you have the right to appeal.
You can request a mandatory reconsideration or appeal to a tribunal.
You should to seek advice from a benefits advisor if you’re considering appealing.
Will DLA Be Replaced by PIP?
It’s important to note that DLA is being gradually replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for people aged between 16 and State Pension age.
However, if you are already claiming DLA and are over State Pension age, you will continue to receive DLA.
How Does DLA Affect Other Benefits?
DLA is not means-tested, which means it’s not affected by your income or savings.
However, receiving DLA might impact your eligibility for other benefits.
It’s advisable to check with the DWP to understand how DLA could affect your overall benefits package.
How Can I Check My DLA Entitlement?
If you’re unsure about your DLA entitlement or want to verify if you’re receiving the correct amount, you can contact the DWP for guidance.
They can provide information on your eligibility and help you understand the DLA assessment process.
What if I Disagree with My DLA Assessment?
If you disagree with the outcome of your DLA assessment, you have the right to appeal.
The appeals process can be complex, so it’s recommended to seek advice from a benefits advisor or disability charity.