Benefits for disabled 16 year old.

[autism07]

Sorry if this sounds a strange question.
My 16 year old has just been awarded PIP. He will be starting 6th form this year.
I don't claim any benefits apart from the standard child benefit.
Will he be entitled to UC?

I don't think he could claim UC until he is 18. Before that age, I think they have to be working or in college.

Thank you. I wasn't sure if it was different with being awarded PIP.

Generally the min age for UC is 18. There are some exceptions but pretty limited.

Have you checked if you can now get UC because of pip?

He won’t be able to claim UC but you might be able to depending on your circumstances and income levels. It’s worth looking into. The thresholds are higher if you have a disabled child.

If you aren't working you can claim carers allowance

Autism07- does your son get high rate Pip, if so then he might well be entitled to Uc

https://contact.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/universalcredittyoungperson.pdf

The circumstances where UC can be claimed at 16 are here:

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2013/376/regulation/8

PIP does not feature amongst those exceptions.

Having limited capability for work is a reason for payment before 18 but there are interactions, intended to make cases exceptional for youngsters studying, between UC and receiving education - https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2013/376/regulation/14

What were the conditions that got him on PIP and what sort of post 16 course will he be doing?

I can't claim UC due to owning a property with my ex that I don't live in but it's classed as capital.
He will be going to 6th form to study for A levels. He has ASD. He has been awarded high rate for mobility and care.

Thank you.

Autism07

When you apply for the Uc your son will go to his first appt - mention then that he gets high rate pip and they should send him for a medical to see if he will be eligible for the higher uc benefit . Also if he gets high rate pip for mobility then he can apply for a car and driving lessons .

Does he get free driving lessons?

Disabled 16 and 17 year olds can claim UC if they have limited capability for work or limited capability for work and work related activity.

Because DS is in full-time education he would also need to be in receipt of PIP and have LCW/LCWRA established prior to the start of the course.

Look at the link @butmumineedit posted. He, or you if appointee, should make a credits only ESA claim now in order to establish LCW/LCWRA. You will need a fit note.

Not everyone on enhanced mobility is eligible for a grant for driving lessons from Motability. It depends on income.