Right now, thousands of parents across the UK are stuck in the same stressful situation:
their child’s DLA award is due to end… but the renewal hasn’t been processed because of the national backlog.
If you’re waiting on a decision, panicking about payments stopping, or confused about when to submit the forms — you are not alone.
This blog breaks down exactly what’s happening and what parents can do to protect their child’s support.
Why the DLA Backlog Is Happening
According to multiple reports from parents and advisors, the DWP is currently facing:
- Record-high numbers of new applications
- A shortage of decision makers
- Longer assessments for complex needs
- Spillover delays from the PIP backlog
Families are reporting delays of 12–16+ weeks for DLA renewals — and for some, even longer.
This is especially worrying because many children rely on DLA for essential care, transport, equipment, sensory tools and therapies.
Will My Child’s DLA Payments Stop If Their Award End Date Passes?
The good news: NO — as long as you submit your renewal on time.
If the renewal was submitted before the deadline, the DWP will continue payments temporarily until they make a decision.
This rule exists specifically because backlogs happen.
If you submitted late, payments can technically stop — but you can still challenge it, especially if:
- the delay was caused by the DWP
- you received the form late
- you have SEND-related caring demands that made submission difficult
Parents can and do get backdated payments in these cases.
When Should I Fill Out the DLA Renewal?
The DWP usually sends renewal forms 6 months before the expiry date.
Here’s the safest timeline:
✔ Fill it in and send it back within 2–4 weeks of receiving it.
This gives you:
- enough time to collect evidence
- time to correct anything
- a buffer in case the DWP misplaces the form (which does happen)
On no account leave it until the final deadline.
The backlog means even small delays can create gaps in payments.
How Long Are DLA Renewals Taking Right Now?
Based on parent reports and case-worker estimates:
- Standard cases: 8–12 weeks
- Moderate complexity: 12–16 weeks
- High complexity / ASD / ADHD / medical needs: 16–24 weeks
- Cases requiring evidence from professionals: longer
This means your renewal may not be processed before your award technically “ends”—
but again, payments continue if you submitted on time.
What About PIP? Will Payments Stop?
For teenagers transitioning from DLA to PIP:
- If you send the PIP forms back by the deadline,
- AND engage with the assessment process,
your current DLA continues until the PIP decision is made, even with a backlog.
PIP backlogs are currently very severe, with many young people waiting 6–12 months.
You will not “lose money” during the wait if you met all deadlines.
Top Tips for Parents Navigating DLA Right Now
1. Keep copies of everything.
Photograph every page before posting.
2. Send it by tracked post.
Too many forms go missing — tracking protects you.
3. Gather evidence early.
Ask school/SENCO, GP, CAMHS, paediatrician, SALT, OT, or private therapists for letters.
4. Use real-life examples in your answers.
The DWP want specifics, not general statements.
5. If they delay — call.
They can place a note on your file confirming continuation of payments.
6. Appeal if needed.
Nearly 60% of DLA/PIP appeals succeed because the original decision was wrong.
Why This Matters
For many families, DLA is the difference between coping and crisis.
- It pays for transport to school
- It covers care needs
- It supports mental health therapies
- It allows parents to reduce work hours
- It funds sensory equipment that isn’t provided anywhere else
In a SEND system already stretched to breaking point, losing DLA — even temporarily — can devastate a family.
That’s why it’s essential parents know their rights and timelines.
Leave a Reply