DLA - never had have to re new. Anyone else?

[Kab3042]

Ds is 11 and we applied for DLA when he was 4/5 and diagnosed with autism. He gets middle rate care and low rate mobility.

I've heard all sorts about renewals and made me realise I've never had to. Dug out paperwork and he's been granted it until 2027 or 2028 I believe (haven't got the paperwork in front of my now to double check that). So he will go over 10 years without a renewal? Is that normal in some cases?

I've been told that he would probably get High rate care now! Can I re-new anyway? Despite not having to?!

I don't know, I've never known anyone have it longer than 5 years, which is what we had

Contact them and request a change of circumstances, you can do this at any time, tell them you want the award re looking at. Things change over time.

DS got his when he was 4 and we’ve renewed once (he went from low rate no mobility element to middle rate care with something for the mobility element too - so definitely worth renewing if you think his needs have changed).

Wow that’s quite unusual! My dd was awarded HRC and LRM since she was three. Now a teenager and we have had to renew every two years since she was first awarded as a three year old.

I’m surprised they have awarded for ten years as things can change so much for a teenager compared to a four year old. Yes, call and request a form for change of circumstances if you feel his care needs have changed significantly to warrant a change in DLA rate.

Some DC receive awards until they are 16. Be aware if you ask for a change of circumstances the award can go down as well as up.