Introduction: Understanding Child Benefit for Parents of Children with ADHD
Raising a child with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often involves additional time, resources, and support. Many parents in the UK wonder whether having a child with ADHD affects their entitlement to Child Benefit or qualifies them for additional financial support. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Child Benefit, related allowances, and how ADHD may influence what you can claim.
What is Child Benefit?
Child Benefit is a tax-free monthly payment available to most UK parents and guardians of children under the age of 16—or under 20 if they’re in approved education or training.
2024/2025 Payment Rates:
- £24.00 per week for the eldest or only child.
- £15.90 per week for each additional child.
Child Benefit is not affected by disability status, meaning you’ll receive the same amount regardless of whether your child has ADHD.
However, there are other benefits and allowances that parents of children with ADHD may be eligible for.
Additional Benefits for Children with ADHD
1. Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
This is the most relevant benefit for parents of children with ADHD.
Key Facts:
- For children under 16 who need more care, supervision, or help getting around than other children of the same age.
- You don’t need a formal diagnosis of ADHD—but it can strengthen your case.
DLA Has Two Components:
- Care Component (low, middle, or high rate)
- Mobility Component (low or high rate)
Many children with ADHD qualify for the care component if they require supervision, help with sleep, daily routines, or managing behaviour.
👉 If your child qualifies for DLA, you may also become eligible for:
- Carer’s Allowance (if you spend 35+ hours per week caring for them).
- Child Tax Credits / Universal Credit Add-ons (disability premiums).
2. Universal Credit (UC) Disability Elements
If you claim UC, having a child with DLA can entitle you to extra monthly payments:
- Disabled Child Addition: £156.11 (lower) or £487.58 (higher) per month depending on DLA rate.
3. Carer’s Allowance
If your child receives DLA at the middle or high care rate, and you spend at least 35 hours a week caring for them, you may be eligible.
- 2024/25 weekly rate: £81.90
How to Claim DLA for a Child with ADHD
Step-by-Step:
- Request the DLA Pack from the GOV.UK website or call 0800 121 4600.
- Provide details of your child’s:
- Behavioural challenges
- Sleep patterns
- Need for supervision or reminders
- School support or EHCP (if applicable)
- Include supporting evidence, such as:
- ADHD diagnosis letter
- Educational reports
- CAMHS or paediatric notes
📌 Tip: Focus on the extra care and supervision your child needs—not just their diagnosis.
ADHD, Education, and EHCP Funding
While Child Benefit isn’t influenced by educational needs, parents of children with ADHD may also seek:
- EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) through your local authority.
- School transport or SEN support, which may come with indirect financial support (like free school meals, or funding towards resources).
Common Questions
❓Does ADHD qualify as a disability for DLA?
Yes—ADHD is recognised as a condition that can meet the DLA criteria, particularly if it affects day-to-day functioning.
❓Can I claim more Child Benefit because my child has ADHD?
No. Child Benefit amounts remain the same, but you may qualify for DLA, UC add-ons, or Carer’s Allowance.
❓What if I already receive Child Benefit—can I still apply for DLA?
Yes. These are separate benefits, and receiving one does not impact your eligibility for the other.
Final Thoughts: Know What You’re Entitled To
While Child Benefit remains the same regardless of ADHD, families may be entitled to significant additional support through Disability Living Allowance, Universal Credit add-ons, and Carer’s Allowance. These benefits exist to help with the additional time, energy, and resources it takes to raise and support a child with ADHD.
Don’t assume you’re not eligible—apply, and include detailed, real-life examples of how ADHD affects daily care.
For more expert ADHD support and guidance, subscribe to our newsletter and visit adhdtribe.co.uk.
Meta Title:
Child Benefit and ADHD: What UK Parents Can Claim
Meta Description:
Raising a child with ADHD? Learn how Child Benefit works, what extra support you can claim, and how to apply for DLA, Carer’s Allowance, and more.
Tags:
ADHD and benefits UK, child benefit ADHD, DLA ADHD children, carer’s allowance ADHD, ADHD financial support, ADHD parenting UK, ADHD family help, ADHD disability claim, Universal Credit ADHD
