worth claiming as a couple?

Indie_Kid

The best thing to do about the DLA, would be to compare your child to another 2 year old. And get help filling in the forms.

molly192

i have been told to file for it and was rejected because we would only be allowed travel expenses and because we're in walking distance that doesn't apply, and because its suspected autism its not a dignoses to get us anything. we were told he was to young toget anything too because he has to be over 3

Indie_Kid

Diagnosis doesn't matter. He has to be over 3 months and have had the care needs for at least 3 months.

Oldernotwiser

You say that your partner claims Carers Allowance - who does he care for?

kingfisherblue

My son has received the care component of DLA since he was three months old.

Travel expenses have nothing to do with DLA. You get travel expenses to the hospital if you are on income support or JSA (possibly other means tested benefits too, but I'm not sure about these). Don't forget that there may come a time when you have to travel by bus, even if it is a short distance, if your child does not co-operate with walking when he is older.

Having a diagnosis does not matter - the level of care (above those of another child the same age) is what matters. I know people whose children have not had a diagnosis, but this has not prevented them from claiming DLA for their child. Contact a Family have a leaflet on living without a diagnosis - it happens enough for them to publish something about it. Also, if your child has suspected autism, there must be a reason to suspect it. This would often mean additional care needs, despite the fact that your child is so young. Yes, all two year olds need a lot of care from their parents, but some need more care than others if they have a disability. TBH, I would make an appointment to see a welfare support worker (through your local council) for further advice. Or if you have a Carer's Centre, they are usually able to help as well.

KeaneFan10

My son was diagnosed with severe autism at aged 4 he was three as he was going through the assessment, although i do agree with some saying claim DLA at this age yes but does he need more care than any other child his age, its such a hard form too fill in and our consultant helped us with ours just after diagnoses its better to be able to say 'He does have autism' rather than he may have. My son is 12 now and non verbal and still in nappies so if you want to talk sometime message me