U.K. Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Introduction

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is the largest government department in the Government of the United Kingdom. DWP is responsible for a range of benefits and services for people who are sick or disabled, and their carers. The Office for Disability Issues is the focal point within government for coordinating the development and the delivery of services for disabled people.

Main Document

The U.K. Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is being replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for disabled people. DLA is a tax-free benefit for children and adults who need help with personal care or have walking difficulties because they are physically or mentally disabled. If you already get DLA, your claim might end. You'll get a letter telling you when this will happen and how you can apply for PIP.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) run a telephone helpline giving information on benefits for sick and disabled people, their representatives, and carers. This is called the Benefits Inquiry Line (BEL). In England, Wales, and Scotland, you can contact the Benefits Inquiry Line on: 0800 88 22 00 or Textphone: 0800 24 33 55.

Continued below image.

Continued...

The Disability and Carers Service is part of the Pension, Disability, and Carers Service (PDCS), an executive agency of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). DWP delivers support and advice through a modern network of local offices throughout England, Scotland and Wales, as well as providing phone and internet-based services. Its services are aimed at people of working age, pensioners, families and children, disabled people and employers. With offices across the country, the service provides financial support for:

• Carer's Allowance
• Attendance Allowance
• Disability Living Allowance
• Vaccine Damage Payments

You may get Disability Living Allowance if:

• you are under 65 when you claim.
• you have a physical or mental disability, or both.
• If you are aged 65 or over, you may be able to get Attendance Allowance.
• your disability is severe enough for you to need help caring for yourself, or you have walking difficulties, or both.

You will not usually need a medical examination when you claim for Disability Living Allowance. If you have a progressive disease, and you are not expected to live for more than another six months, there are special rules for claiming to make sure you get your benefit more quickly and easily.

Disability Living Allowance is normally paid directly into any account of your choice which accepts Direct Payment of benefits. This might be a bank, building society or other account provider. You may be able to get someone else to collect your Disability Living Allowance if you wish.