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Here you'll find advice from parents and teachers on special needs education.

DLA WAIT TIMES 2026

577 replies

Emssxo · 06/06/2026 22:14

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. ❤️

OP posts:
MrsW1212 · Yesterday 20:33

koalaaa · Yesterday 19:57

Another update!! Scan date 01/07

decision was made on 25th August (no text) and payment received today 28th.

I wasn’t happy with the rate (worked out from back payment) so called up this afternoon.

for context, my 2 year old son was diagnosed with cancer in May and I called for a form mid June.

I spoke to a really lovely lady and she said because he was only two he was awarded middle rate for the time which his form was in a queue and then once a decision was made on Tuesday they awarded HRC as he is 3 in a couple of weeks.
I didn’t think age would be a factor in it as his care remains the same no matter how old he is. I thought mobility would be the only thing affected.

I know some ladies on here have applied for their 2 year olds so I’m hoping this all makes sense!

Awww honey. I can’t even imagine what you are going through. I’m glad you finally got your rate you and your little one deserve. My little one is 2 but not going through anything like what you are. Thank you so much for thinking of us though. Love to you all x

Lifeisendlessx · Yesterday 20:35

koalaaa · Yesterday 20:17

no, from the date I called up in mid June.

It seemed to take forever but actually it was quite quick considering we’re told a decision can take up to 25 weeks.

Just seen you latest update. I’m so happy for you ♥️ All the best for your little boy x

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