DLA renewals, reviews and changes

Fixed-period awards

Most DLA awards for children are made for a set number of years. When the award period ends, you need to renew to keep receiving DLA. Some awards are made for an indefinite period where the condition is clearly permanent — check your award letter for the type of award made.

Renewing a DLA award

The DWP will usually contact you before the award expires to ask you to complete a renewal form. Complete this as fully as possible — treat it like a new claim and describe your child’s current needs in detail. Do not assume that because the award was granted before, it will automatically be renewed at the same rate.

If the child’s needs have changed since the original claim, make sure the renewal form reflects the current situation.

What to do if the child’s needs increase

If your child’s care or mobility needs increase significantly before the end of the award period, you can report this to the DWP and ask for the award to be reviewed. You do not have to wait until renewal.

If the DWP agrees that needs have increased, the award may be increased. However, a review can also result in a lower award if the DWP decides needs have decreased.

Changes you must report

You must tell the DWP about changes that could affect the award, including:

• The child going into hospital for more than 84 days
• The child going into residential care or a special school that is residential during the week
• A significant improvement in the child’s condition
• A change in the child’s address

Official source

For guidance on changes and renewals: GOV.UK — DLA for children: renewing and claiming again