DLA WAIT TIMES 2026

[Emssxo]

Hi everyone 👋

I thought I’d make a post in case it helps any other parents and also because I’d love to find some people to go through this waiting period with.

My eldest son (now 7) had his original DLA form received on 05/04/2024. He was awarded Middle Rate Care and Low Rate Mobility on 02/08/2024 until February 2026.

His renewal form was then sent off on 08/12/2025 and we received a decision on 14/01/2026, with the same awards continuing until 2028.

I’ve now submitted my 5-year-old son’s first DLA claim. It was sent signed for and received on 28/05/2026. I haven’t had confirmation that it’s been scanned onto the system yet, so the waiting game begins all over again.

As a single mum to two boys, I always find this process incredibly overwhelming. Sitting and writing pages about all the things your child struggles with and can’t do compared to other children their age is heartbreaking, even when you know you’re simply being honest. The forms take so much emotional energy.

When I applied for my eldest in 2024, I actually met some lovely parents through groups like this and still speak to some of them now, so I thought I’d reach out again.

If you’re currently waiting for a decision, I would really appreciate it if any parents can please comment with when your form was received and how long you’ve been waiting. I’d also be really grateful to hear if anyone has had a recent decision in 2026 and what current wait times seem to be.

Wishing everyone the best of luck with their claims. ❤️

SD 1st July update

just received payment.

I’m happy the wait is over but will be doing a MR as I don’t agree with the rate at all!

how did you work out the rate? My scan date was also the 1st July but nothing here 🤦🏽‍♀️ what area are you from?

Congratulations on your award. I’m sorry it’s not the right rate though. I’m a week behind you, so fingers crossed x

Give them a call. They may have made a decision now. I’ve had it where I was told I was nowhere near a decision maker then got a decision the same day! X

Put my dates in chat gpt and it worked it out!

I’m East Midlands

it’s worth giving them a call. I called them at the start of the week and they did say it was with a decision maker, so at least you’ll know

Does anyone know if it’s best to print off the MR form or to call up for one? Does it make a difference like it does with a new claim?

Hi, ive just called up to check they had the extra evidence I sent in. The lady said she couldnt give a wait time but its not with a case manager but once it is a decision is made within a couple of days. I honestly feel sick worrying about whether she will get awarded. X

Aww what’s your scan date? X

I’ve never done an MR so I’m not sure x

@MrsW1212 my scan date is 27th July, so its only been 5 weeks nearly.. ive probably still got ages to go 🤦‍♀️. X

I had a call today from the DM but couldn’t talk as we’re on a train so I e have a call booked for Tuesday - why are they calling me ?

Oooh. Maybe you missed something on the form? Sounds promising though 🤞🏻 x

Aww hopefully not too long x

It does in terms of queues, you can cut the time down by calling as it starts the clock.
I submitted a MR on 6/7 and, also have a new claim for my other child 30/7 everything crossed I don’t have to do another MR, but with what I’ve learned I would:
Call them, go through enquiries (option 4) they can tell you the reasons over the phone and write them down, you need the reasons to do the MR also request it in writing. (I’m still waiting for my written reasons).
Look at the form, they basically fill this in over the phone so you’re prepared.
Call back to request your MR you don’t have to go into massive detail you basically want it logged asap. Once the call handler has submitted, it goes onto a legal one month mandatory hold to give you time to send evidence no one can touch it until this is up.
Then follow up in writing in detail with all of your evidence linked as to why you disagree send it to the same address as the original claim form 24hr tracked.
Hope this helps x

I am the same scan date! 🤞🤞

Brilliant. That’s really helpful.
Thank you!

Your welcome it’s all so stressful x

Hopefully they are working hard today to get a load done before the bank holiday 🤞🏻 x

SD 7th July my sons renewal hopefully fingers crossed won’t be long to wait 🤞xx

Renewal update
Award ended today 28th August.
Called this morning option 4, my twins has both been awarded, my daughter until 2031 and son until 2028. I believe this is because my daughter has a diagnosis and my son is on the waitlist. Overall happy with award, thankfully won't have to fill two forms in at once.

He was asking about her asd and adhd assessment and Camhs referral but it was hard to hear- he did say after the phone call on Tuesday he would make a decision so at least I know I don’t have too much longer to wait I am just worried if I say something wrong 🤣🤦🏽‍♀️ we are away at the moment and I am going to use the airport as an example of her support need as it was AWFUL even with all the support in place I actually thought we wouldn’t make it here 🤦🏽‍♀️ he seemed nice enough on the phone so hopefully it will be fine

just wondered if anyone else has had to speak to them before a decision was made ? I sent loads of evidence from other people too!

Awww bless you. I think that sounds really promising. Try and have a lovely holiday. I know how stressful it can be. I’ve not tackled an abroad trip with mine yet. 4 nights in London was bad enough with my lot 🤣 x

Hi, I submitted a MR 6/7 called to day and it’s in a queue for decision maker. Have you had any news on yours?

Aww that’s brilliant news

This is great news. Congratulations x