Benefits for under 16 year olds
If you are looking after a child under the age of 16, you may get financial support from one of the following:
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Disability Living Allowance can help with extra costs of looking after a child who:
- is under 16
- has difficulties walking or needs much more looking after than a child of the same age who does not have a disability.
Find out how to apply for a DLA, including easy read and BSL guides.
DLA for adults will soon be replaced by the Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Free childcare
All 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to up to 15 hours of free early education and childcare over 38 weeks of the year. 2 year olds can also get free childcare if they:
- are looked after by a local authority
- have a statement of special education needs (SEN) or an education, health and care (EHC) plan
- get Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
Find out more about free childcare.
Tax-Free Childcare
For each of your children, you can get up to £500 every three months (up to £2,000 a year) to help with childcare costs. It increases to £1,000 every three months if your child is disabled (up to £4,000 annually).
Tax-Free Childcare money can pay for extra childcare hours. Your childcare provider may also be able to use it to buy mobility aids for your child. If your child needs equipment, you can discuss it with them.
Read more about Tax-Free Childcare.
Max Card
The Max Card is a discount card for families of children with disabilities. It can help you save money on great days out at castles, zoos, bowling alleys and more.
These are available to any family with a disabled child or young person who gets disability benefits or has an EHC plan.
See how to register for a Max Card.
Universal credit
Universal credit is replacing Child Tax Credits in 2022 and is a payment to help with your living costs. You might get extra Universal Credit if you have a health condition or disability. It must prevent you from working or preparing for work.