People who have long term ill-health or disability costs can apply for a government funded Personal Independence Payment or PIP.

If you get a Disability Living Allowance (DLA) you do not automatically qualify for PIP. You have to apply for it. You may be eligible to apply as soon as you are 16 years old.

Even if you are moving across from DLA, your application needs to give a detailed picture of your situation. It needs a lot of careful thinking and planning. If you are living with your parents you can work on this together. If you do not live with your parents, talk to your guardian and / or your social worker.

Read more: in our Adult’s section about Applying for PIP >

Your parents may still be able to get Carer’s Allowance (Tab 1) >

You may not come across, need or be eligible for all of this support. If you are going to need a support and care package, depending on your age, have a look at:

• Children / Support Packages >
• Adults / Support & Care Packages (Tab 3) >

Once you are aged 16, you may have the option of applying for Universal Credit (UC).  But this could affect the benefits your parents receive.  It is extremely complicated to work out what is best and what your family is entitled to. It is well worth seeking specialist advice:

See:  Contact’s claiming Universal Credit as a young person age 16 years > .

If you are a parent of a teenager looking for information on financial support, there is more information at:

Children / Tab 5 – Other Benefits >

If you are looking for ways to get your parents help or are a parent looking for help with the rapidly rising cost of living, please see the sources of support at Children / Tab 4 – Cost of Living Support >.