DLA and UC

[squirrelnut]

I posted in Special Needs but no response....

I am wondering if anyone knows if I will be forced to claim UC if I claim DLA for my son?

I would not be claiming carers allowance if that makes a difference as I work part time and that won’t change.

No you won't. DLA is a non-means tested benefit that is separate from UC. It would only be if you claimed one of the 'legacy' benefits (JSA, ESA, etc) or had a significant change in your tax credit situation, or housing benefit (if you claim that).

DLA is entirely separate and not means tested. It doesn’t count as income. (Unlike carer’s allowance) So I don’t think it should have any effect. It shouldn’t trigger a change from tax credits to UC. My DS gets PIP now he’s over 16, I’m his appointee and I still get tax credits.

I think... but don’t hold me to it, that it you get dla for a child the UC credit switch won’t happen for you yet

Phew - thanks all! I won’t be claiming any legacy benefits so all good I’ll get my evidence together and fingers crossed.

claiming DLA will not trigger a switch to UC. You would need to be making a new claim for one of the six benefits that Uc replaces to trigger a switch.