child dla claim advice needed

millymollie

Hi there,
We have just been awarded DLA high care rate for our daughter who is 4, its been awarded for 3 years.
On the award letter it says that next year when she turns 5 we will be asked if we want to claim the mobility component for her.

My question is- do they review the whole claim if we apply for mobility for her as I have heard that sometimes the care component can be lowered in a review (our daughter has severe learning disabilities and suspected autism)
If I say I don't wish to apply for mobility will they be suspicious anyway or can I just say that we are happy with her award as it stands. I hope this makes sense, the money is a lifeline and we don't want to lose it by being greedy.
Thanks in advance
MM x

wornoutmumoftwo

No, nearer the time they'll send out the mobility claim form, you won't need to redo the care element

Also if you're getting tax credits you can phone them and explain your daughter is in receipt of DLA and you will receive the disability element.

*Twinkle*

i was in the same situation as you, when my daughter turned 5 i applied for, and got, lower rate mobility and my care componant stayed the same, however, i'm pretty sure i had to fill out the original form again.

benefitbaby

*Twinkle* wrote: »

i was in the same situation as you, when my daughter turned 5 i applied for, and got, lower rate mobility and my care componant stayed the same, however, i'm pretty sure i had to fill out the original form again.

Very true, they will review the whole award so ensure you are as detailed on the form you get when your child turns 5 as you were on the original one

princessdon

I think a lot will depend on whether you need to claim mobility - you may not (I don't know your circs) apply if they do etc

Eg my nephew has learning difficulties and possibly some form of ASD. He needs additional care (but my sister doesn't wish to claim as this will for her mean admitting he needs additional needs/care).

Mobility

Erm not a problem - That one has energy where I fail to see it comes from (given he won't eat!). He can do a 10 mile run and still bounce up and down.

Just see how it is at the time is my advice.

millymollie

some excellent advice received

Many thanks!!!
MM