Trying to close Disability Living Allowance claim

baileywin2

Child was diagnosed with (mild) hearing loss, DLA claim opened/approved a few years ago.

Most recent test shows improved hearing, e.g. hearing aids no longer required.

Called up to cancel/close DLA claim but was told it needs to go some special department for them to re-evaluate the claim.

Got a letter to say it's been re-evaluated and the decision stands, no changes to the claim etc as if I was asking for more money!

I'll try again in a couple of months but otherwise do I just wait for the renewal and ignore it?

TimeLord1

If their decision stands, there's nothing you can do except let it run down. Keep all the communication from yourself and them; if you want, you could divert the funds into a separate account. Maybe they took the stance that he may need it in time. But take note of what will be paid or separate it from your regular account.

Newcad

I do note that you say "most recent tests" - how recent?

The DWP will want to see that a change in condition (better or worse) has lasted for 6 months or more before changing a DLA award.

You had reported a "change of circumstances"; so they did a review of the claim and decided that despite the reported change the award should still stand as it was.

Which is what the letter says.

So the DLA award continues until it is next reviewed, and your child is entitled to the DLA money at least until then.

You have informed the DWP of the change, they have decided that the change does not affect the award - so personally I would now leave things as they are until the DWP asks for a review.

HillStreetBlues

I agree, you have a duty to inform the DWP of changes and you did.

baileywin2

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81868776#Comment_81868776

Within the last 6 months - if that's the cut-off, that would make more sense.

Newcad

It's more of a policy than a hard cut-off point, but it is what they tend to work to both for DLA and PIP award reviews.

However you have correctly reported the change of condition, they have reviewed, and they have decided not to change the award.

All correct and above board so just continue as you are and wait for the DWP to contact you when they next want to review again.

Bigwheels1111

My wife got PiP, I claimed carers allowance at same time.

All good.

6 months later she got an extra payment of £250 ish.

Worked out it was a benefit instead of carers, don’t remember what it was called.

Contracted them, they said if our mistake you and keep it, if your mistake you must pay back.

Kept the money separate.

A month later they paid it again.

Called again.

Finally they stopped paying it.

She kept the money for 18 months just in case, never received anything from them.

So spent the money on kids Christmas presents.

Keep it in a separate account, make interest and wait.