Benefits and allowances for young people

There are different types of money support you might be able to get if you have a disability, health condition, or need extra help as you move into adulthood. Here’s a simple guide to what’s available and what each one means.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for over 16s

If you are 16 or over and have a long‑term physical or mental health condition, you may be able to get PIP. 

PIP helps with the extra costs of daily life or getting around. Your income or savings don’t affect it because it’s not means‑tested. 

PIP has two parts:

  • daily living - help with everyday tasks
  • mobility - help with getting around

Each part has a standard and enhanced rate depending on your needs. 

Find out more about PIP (Personal Independence Payment).

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for under 16s

If you’re under 16 and need extra help with care or mobility, you might get DLA.

When you turn 16, you’ll normally be asked to apply for PIP, and your DLA will carry on until your PIP claim is decided (if you apply by the deadline). 

Find out more about DLA.

Universal Credit (UC) 

Some young people with disabilities can get Universal Credit if their condition means they can’t work or have limited ability to work. You’ll need:

  • A fit note saying you can’t work
  • A health assessment showing you have limited capability for work 

You can usually get UC if you’re studying only if you also get PIP/DLA and have limited capability for work. 

Motability scheme

If you receive the mobility part of PIP at the enhanced rate, you can choose to use the Motability scheme to get:

  • a car
  • a wheelchair‑accessible vehicle (WAV)
  • a scooter or powered wheelchair

This helps young people stay independent and travel more easily. 

Blue Badge

If your disability affects your mobility, you may be able to get a Blue Badge. This lets you park closer to shops, services, and places you need to go.

This is linked to the same mobility assessments used for PIP. 

Help with housing costs

If you live on your own or are looking to move out, you may be able to get:

  • housing support through Universal Credit, or
  • support from your local council if your disability affects your housing needs 

Some young people also get help through supported living schemes.

Cost of living support

If money is tight, there are national and local schemes that help with:

  • bills
  • food
  • essential living costs

Citizens Advice can help you understand what you can get and how to apply.