Entitlements

Have a look at our list of entitlements to see what you may be eligible for. If you find any of this information is incorrect, please contact us so we can keep everything up to date.

Blue Badge

In Surrey the Blue Badge for Disabled Parking is available from the age of 2. You can send in your application a few weeks in advance so that it will be ready to use on your child's second birthday. It is pretty straightforward if your child doesn't walk at all, but if they can walk a few steps you may need to be assessed which can delay the process. Call 08456 009 009 and they'll send you an application form, or apply online at surreycc.gov.uk under the Blue Badge Scheme.

Carers Allowance

Carers Allowance is available for anyone spending 35 hours per week caring for someone who receives middle or higher rate DLA. This benefit is earnings-related, and you will not qualify if you are in full time education. Your other benefits may go up or down. Call 01253 856123 or look online at dwp.gov.uk under Services and Benefits.

Child Benefit

Child Benefit is available for all children. Call 0845 302 1444 or look online at hmrc.gov.uk

Council Tax Reduction

Council Tax Reduction is not normally available for disabled children in a household, unless a room is being used to 'meet the needs of the disabled person'. This could include storing specialist equipment for them or using a room for 'treatment'. If the council accept your claims, they will consider that you have one less bedroom in your house, which then reduces the Band your house is in for Council Tax purposes. Using a wheelchair in the house is also mentioned as a reason to get a deduction. Contact your local Council for specific details.

DLA - Disability Living Allowance

DLA can be claimed at:

3 Months for the Care Component
3 Years for the Higher Rate Mobility Component (If you receive this you should be eligible for Vehicle Tax Exemption and Motability - see below)
5 Years for the Lower Rate Mobility Component

Call 08457 123456 or contact the Benefits Enquiry Line on 0800 882200 for more information.

Free Nappies

If your child is over 4 and is still wearing nappies all the time day and night, you should be able to obtain free, good-quality nappies. You can even specify brands such as Pampers or Huggies. Speak to your Health Visitor or GP.

Motability

Motability is a charity which helps people who have the higher rate mobility component of the DLA lease a new car. They also have hire-purchase agreements as well. Telephone 0845 456 4566 or online at motability.co.uk

Tax Credits

Tax credits are available to claim. Phone the Inland Revenue helpline on 0845 300 3900 or go to hmrc.gov.uk for more information.

Working Tax Credit is available for people working 16 hours or more.
Child Tax Credit supports families with children regardless of whether you are in work or not.

VAT Exemption - Can you claim?

If you are purchasing any goods/equipment which have been specifically designed for use by people who are chronically sick or disabled then you may be eligible for the goods/service to be exempt from VAT. HM Customs and Excise have a booklet 'Notice 701/7' which explains the requirements and the process. An example would be if you were purchasing a special needs adapted bicycle for your child, you may not need to pay VAT. Ask the company you are purchasing from, and they will tell you the requirments what you need to do.

Vehicle Tax Exemption

If you are receiving the higher rate mobility component of the DLA you don't need to pay Road Tax on your vehicle. To apply, ask at your Post Office or visit the DVLA online at dvla.gov.uk