Page 34 | DLA WAIT TIMES THREAD 61

macap · 2024-12-30T17:21:21+00:00

Hey! Thought I'd make a new thread as previous one very close to being full! These threads have been a big help whilst waiting for the outcome of our application. Sure they help everyone else too! It's stressful! Please feel free to add your scan date and whether it's a new claim/mandatory reconsideration/change of circumstances or renewal. New claims (NC) - people are being told the wait time has increased to 25 weeks! I would say most are done before this though around the 20 week mark? Mandatory reconsideration (MC) and Change of circumstances (COC) is around 20-25 weeks. Renewals tend to be between 15-20 weeks. If you disagree with the outcome of an MR you can appeal and go to court (tribunal) Scan date is the date DLA scan your application forms on to their system, if you downloaded your application forms then this will be from when your award will be backdated from. If you called up for forms then the date on those is the date yours will be backdated from. If successful and claiming universal credit (UC) please update them as this will entitle you to disabled child element adding extra to your award. DLA contact number is 0800 121 4600

Katone · 09/01/2025 14:49

SKB12 · 09/01/2025 14:43

That was me! The wait is horrendous. I hope you hear by next week

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I hope so if they were working on 6/8 prior to Xmas break they would have been back the 2nd Jan? So should be nearing mine soon! When she said it was still in holding que my stomach dropped!! I've sent in info, a letter from myself fully explaining why I'm doing the MR. I just want it over lool.

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 14:58

@Rags2Richards Just seen your tag.. @Katone Don't listen to the call handlers that say it will go to a DM at 22 weeks they don't even know what they are talking about 😂... Reasons the claims seem to not be done in exact date order is because..
All claims are posted to Wolverhampton sorting office their job is to open the claim and scan it onto the dla benefit system ( no dms see paper claims) the dla benefit system is accessed by DMs at different benefit office locations all over England ( dms are not at the Wolverhampton sorting office) so some locations could be starting the second week of August claims, some could be starting the first week of September claims some still be on the first week of August, it doesn't mean anyone's jumped the queue it just means whatever office of dms that are dealing with your claim could be weeks ahead or weeks behind.. Also some claims have to also be looked at by the dwp HCP ( healthcare professional) or the DM has to liase with them on some questions or anything they are stuck on when following the DM guide to make an award and some claims don't need any HCP input at all.. So the DM has to wait for the HCP to get back to them so they will continue with the next claim in line... If you see a claim awarded from 30/8 and you are still waiting for example from 01/08 it don't mean the 30/8 jumped any queue just a different DM at a different office has dealt with the 30/8 claim in line with the dates that office are upto.
Also nearly every single MR will need HCP input as the DM has already made an award on that and in order to change it they need advice from the HCP...
Just as a side note the DWP HCP work across the board on all disability claims so child and adult pip and Dla and it's them that are back logged causing delays in dla as it's taking them longer to get back to the DMs... DMs are not medically trained they have no clue about child disabilities or illness they follow a guide on care and motability needs and have to liase with the DWP HCP.. Hope that helps..
Dla are currently working 01/08 to 15/09 claims

Katone · 09/01/2025 15:03

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 14:58

@Rags2Richards Just seen your tag.. @Katone Don't listen to the call handlers that say it will go to a DM at 22 weeks they don't even know what they are talking about 😂... Reasons the claims seem to not be done in exact date order is because..
All claims are posted to Wolverhampton sorting office their job is to open the claim and scan it onto the dla benefit system ( no dms see paper claims) the dla benefit system is accessed by DMs at different benefit office locations all over England ( dms are not at the Wolverhampton sorting office) so some locations could be starting the second week of August claims, some could be starting the first week of September claims some still be on the first week of August, it doesn't mean anyone's jumped the queue it just means whatever office of dms that are dealing with your claim could be weeks ahead or weeks behind.. Also some claims have to also be looked at by the dwp HCP ( healthcare professional) or the DM has to liase with them on some questions or anything they are stuck on when following the DM guide to make an award and some claims don't need any HCP input at all.. So the DM has to wait for the HCP to get back to them so they will continue with the next claim in line... If you see a claim awarded from 30/8 and you are still waiting for example from 01/08 it don't mean the 30/8 jumped any queue just a different DM at a different office has dealt with the 30/8 claim in line with the dates that office are upto.
Also nearly every single MR will need HCP input as the DM has already made an award on that and in order to change it they need advice from the HCP...
Just as a side note the DWP HCP work across the board on all disability claims so child and adult pip and Dla and it's them that are back logged causing delays in dla as it's taking them longer to get back to the DMs... DMs are not medically trained they have no clue about child disabilities or illness they follow a guide on care and motability needs and have to liase with the DWP HCP.. Hope that helps..
Dla are currently working 01/08 to 15/09 claims

Thanks for that, I didn't assume anyone jumped the que I just didn't know how it all worked. Just waiting game it so long haha! I will refrain from calling until end of Jan but hopefully I hear before x

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 15:15

Yeah i get that it's hard to understand how claims are processed and why some are done quicker than others.. The wait is not 25 weeks for a new claim the dla have caught up slightly since December and it's 18 to 21 weeks, just so you are also aware the call handlers can not see which claims are with a DM and which ones aren't, they make an assumption that if they open your file on the call and they see a DM note on the claim they assume that claim is with the DM but if they open your file on the call and can't see any DM notes they assume that claim isn't with a DM and that's not true in the slightest, just cause a DM hasn't put a note on a claim file doesn't mean they aren't looking at it or haven't been looking at it for weeks it just means they haven't needed to write a note... So they could tell you today it's not with a DM and to tomorrow you could get back pay cause its been with the DM all week.. So you're within your rights to call to see if a decision has been made at any time you want past 15 weeks.. But even if they say it's not with a DM take it with a pinch of salt they are quite frankly making things up based on assumption and to get you off the line 😂🙄🤣🤔

SKB12 · 09/01/2025 15:21

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 14:58

@Rags2Richards Just seen your tag.. @Katone Don't listen to the call handlers that say it will go to a DM at 22 weeks they don't even know what they are talking about 😂... Reasons the claims seem to not be done in exact date order is because..
All claims are posted to Wolverhampton sorting office their job is to open the claim and scan it onto the dla benefit system ( no dms see paper claims) the dla benefit system is accessed by DMs at different benefit office locations all over England ( dms are not at the Wolverhampton sorting office) so some locations could be starting the second week of August claims, some could be starting the first week of September claims some still be on the first week of August, it doesn't mean anyone's jumped the queue it just means whatever office of dms that are dealing with your claim could be weeks ahead or weeks behind.. Also some claims have to also be looked at by the dwp HCP ( healthcare professional) or the DM has to liase with them on some questions or anything they are stuck on when following the DM guide to make an award and some claims don't need any HCP input at all.. So the DM has to wait for the HCP to get back to them so they will continue with the next claim in line... If you see a claim awarded from 30/8 and you are still waiting for example from 01/08 it don't mean the 30/8 jumped any queue just a different DM at a different office has dealt with the 30/8 claim in line with the dates that office are upto.
Also nearly every single MR will need HCP input as the DM has already made an award on that and in order to change it they need advice from the HCP...
Just as a side note the DWP HCP work across the board on all disability claims so child and adult pip and Dla and it's them that are back logged causing delays in dla as it's taking them longer to get back to the DMs... DMs are not medically trained they have no clue about child disabilities or illness they follow a guide on care and motability needs and have to liase with the DWP HCP.. Hope that helps..
Dla are currently working 01/08 to 15/09 claims

Thanks for that. Honestly the way my mind ha gone over and over their process is crazy! So my daughter has her renewal in May, if we are seeking to change the rate (she gets LRC) I think it should be MRC, so we state that on the form when the time comes or would we be better off doing it now do you think? I know we can always do a MR after the renewal decision but it’s whether I really want to subject myself to this torture again 🤯

Katone · 09/01/2025 15:21

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 15:15

Yeah i get that it's hard to understand how claims are processed and why some are done quicker than others.. The wait is not 25 weeks for a new claim the dla have caught up slightly since December and it's 18 to 21 weeks, just so you are also aware the call handlers can not see which claims are with a DM and which ones aren't, they make an assumption that if they open your file on the call and they see a DM note on the claim they assume that claim is with the DM but if they open your file on the call and can't see any DM notes they assume that claim isn't with a DM and that's not true in the slightest, just cause a DM hasn't put a note on a claim file doesn't mean they aren't looking at it or haven't been looking at it for weeks it just means they haven't needed to write a note... So they could tell you today it's not with a DM and to tomorrow you could get back pay cause its been with the DM all week.. So you're within your rights to call to see if a decision has been made at any time you want past 15 weeks.. But even if they say it's not with a DM take it with a pinch of salt they are quite frankly making things up based on assumption and to get you off the line 😂🙄🤣🤔

Oh really hahaha, I don't know if that makes me feel better or worse! Loool!

I must say I was good with calling and i just left it, it was only seeing this thread made me change my mind haha!

We will see, it is just the waiting that is frustrating. And I'm not hopeful for a text or anything as I have never had one before, I have just seen a payment in bank at 3am🫠😂✌🏼 because I couldn't sleep knowing it was close to the date!

SKB12 · 09/01/2025 15:27

Katone · 09/01/2025 14:49

I hope so if they were working on 6/8 prior to Xmas break they would have been back the 2nd Jan? So should be nearing mine soon! When she said it was still in holding que my stomach dropped!! I've sent in info, a letter from myself fully explaining why I'm doing the MR. I just want it over lool.

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They were back open 30/12. Hearing its still in the queue is gutful but they must be near your date and who knows even working on it just that the call handler can’t see anything so they say it’s not assigned

Rags2Richards · 09/01/2025 15:33

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 15:15

Yeah i get that it's hard to understand how claims are processed and why some are done quicker than others.. The wait is not 25 weeks for a new claim the dla have caught up slightly since December and it's 18 to 21 weeks, just so you are also aware the call handlers can not see which claims are with a DM and which ones aren't, they make an assumption that if they open your file on the call and they see a DM note on the claim they assume that claim is with the DM but if they open your file on the call and can't see any DM notes they assume that claim isn't with a DM and that's not true in the slightest, just cause a DM hasn't put a note on a claim file doesn't mean they aren't looking at it or haven't been looking at it for weeks it just means they haven't needed to write a note... So they could tell you today it's not with a DM and to tomorrow you could get back pay cause its been with the DM all week.. So you're within your rights to call to see if a decision has been made at any time you want past 15 weeks.. But even if they say it's not with a DM take it with a pinch of salt they are quite frankly making things up based on assumption and to get you off the line 😂🙄🤣🤔

Cheers for the explanation. I remembered some of what you said in previous posts, but did not want to get it wrong as I am still learning myself. I was told today mine is with the DM. But I will take it with a pinch of salt as you say they can’t say for sure. 20 weeks today so I am hoping it’s not too much longer as it’s so stressful

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 15:47

@SKB12 have they sent renewals forms? Usually they send them a couple off months before your current award runs out don't they?

SJoJo83 · 09/01/2025 15:48

Reading this has eased my mind massively....I called this morning about my daughters claim. NC SD 29/8 and the lady I spoke to was so lovely but was a bit disheartened when she said that there's nothing yet....and that claims aren't going to DM's till 25 weeks and its a couple of weeks for them to look at them even though the last time I called was the end of November and the lady then had told me to call back after the 16th January as that would be 20 weeks. So thankfully for everyone's input on here as without it my anxiety would be through the roof

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 15:54

@Rags2Richards If they have told you it is with a DM it means at some point the DM has noted the claim that could say anything like awaiting doctor input awaiting school input, or asked HCP a question waiting for response or stuck between medium add high decision so relooking at questions if they are waiting on input from someone else they will continue the other claims but they could also be sat their with your claim file open on the system and doing it right now

Glitzxx · 09/01/2025 15:57

I have new evidence to send in does this mean ill get pushed back in the queue or not please

MrsMacmumto6 · 09/01/2025 16:10

Katone · 09/01/2025 14:33

I hope so! I seen your comment and thought I need to call haha in the hopes it had changed from the other week! They have said it will be 25weeks on 31st Jan, but should go over to DM soon! I just want to know so I can figure out what to do next. It's so consuming lool

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Exact same scan date as me for MR and I was told yesterday to wait until 31st :( hoping it’s soon

Rags2Richards · 09/01/2025 16:18

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 15:54

@Rags2Richards If they have told you it is with a DM it means at some point the DM has noted the claim that could say anything like awaiting doctor input awaiting school input, or asked HCP a question waiting for response or stuck between medium add high decision so relooking at questions if they are waiting on input from someone else they will continue the other claims but they could also be sat their with your claim file open on the system and doing it right now

Makes sense thank you

CGBJ · 09/01/2025 16:21

Hi everyone!

I've been lurking since my S/D for COC 6/08. I called today I got a bit of courage from reading here. Spoke to a lovely person but said ring back 28th Jan if I've heard nothing as it's still in the holding queue but if it goes over that date it can be escalated.

The wait is so agonising isn't it. My son has Autism, Global Developmental Delay and severe asthma. I basically was hoping for HRM after speaking to a few HCPs but I have a feeling this is going to be declined and I'll still have a fight ahead.

It really is soul destroying constantly having to fight for our children isn't it. Sending everyone lots of love and continued strength. You all sound A-mazing!

JesP09 · 09/01/2025 16:27

SD 20/08

I just rang for the first time!
The lady was very nice, gave me the 25 week lecture and so I just simply asked for an update.

She told me a decision had been made!!! I asked to be transferred to someone who could tell me the decision, she went to do so but told me the call wouldn't go through so told me to call back and ask to be put through to the "service department".
I'm so emotional right now but dreading hearing the outcome. I don't think I can wait for a letter!

Congratulations to everyone who also got an answer today!

JW070116 · 09/01/2025 16:52

Glitzxx · 09/01/2025 15:57

I have new evidence to send in does this mean ill get pushed back in the queue or not please

It shouldn't, if you send it next day by 1pm special delivery. Call them and tell them what it is and that your sending it asap. It will only help your claim and could change a no to a yes 😊

Glitzxx · 09/01/2025 16:54

JW070116 · 09/01/2025 16:52

It shouldn't, if you send it next day by 1pm special delivery. Call them and tell them what it is and that your sending it asap. It will only help your claim and could change a no to a yes 😊

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my sons senco is doing him a letter when shes back monday shes on holiday atm and the inclusion support as well be done early next week im sending all on the same day i get them first class signed for

GraceS25 · 09/01/2025 16:57

Fingers crossed for everyone they seem to be moving fast with the August claims

Tsjken · 09/01/2025 16:59

SD 15/08 NC
hi all I’ve been silently reading this thread for weeks now
my sons claim has been with a DM since last Thursday afternoon, I’ve called this Thursday and they are saying it’s still with the DM. Does anyone know how long the DM’s normally take? 🫣

Haylz94 · 09/01/2025 17:07

macap · 09/01/2025 08:22

Woo glad you were awarded, such a relief to know isn't it! You can ring up and ask for rates if you need to

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Thank you I rang up and it’s middle rate unti July 2026 I’m guessing that’s because that’s when she will turn 5

Original poster

macap · 09/01/2025 17:17

Called for an update but under the guise of asking about sending some more info in.

Got given the 25 week chat.

I live in hope.

OP posts:

PipB94 · 09/01/2025 18:43

macap · 09/01/2025 17:17

Called for an update but under the guise of asking about sending some more info in.

Got given the 25 week chat.

I live in hope.

What’s your scan date again? Xx

Original poster

macap · 09/01/2025 19:05

@PipB94 13/9 so a way off but worth a try. 😆

OP posts:

SKB12 · 09/01/2025 19:15

PositivityRipples · 09/01/2025 15:47

@SKB12 have they sent renewals forms? Usually they send them a couple off months before your current award runs out don't they?

No we haven’t received them yet. Her claim is due for renewal in May. When I called to ask for the forms, they said to get back in touch on 01/03 if we hadn’t got them by then.