When you turn 16, you might be able to get some benefits on your own, but it depends on your situation. If you stay in school or training, your parents can still get child benefit for you. You need to think about which choice is better for your family.If you need help with your education, health, or social care, you can get payments in your name if you qualify.
If you were getting Disability Living Allowance (DLA) before, you will now be looked at for a new benefit called Personal Independence Payment (PIP). You will get a letter about this before your 16th birthday. Check if you're eligible for PIP - Citizens Advice
If you are in full-time education and get DLA or PIP, you can apply for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). To find out more, visit Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): Overview - GOV.UK
If you are 16 or 17, you might be able to get Universal Credit in some situations:
• You don't have support from your parents or you are in the care of the local authority.
• You are the main carer for someone who is severely disabled.
• You have a partner who can claim Universal Credit.
• You are pregnant and the baby is due in 11 weeks or less.
• You have had a baby in the last 15 weeks.
Remember: If you get Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), any benefits your parents get for you as a dependant (like child benefit) will stop. It's a good idea to get advice to make sure your family won't get less money overall. You can get help from the Citizens Advice Bureau by calling 0800 144 8848. Your parents also need to stop your child benefit claim when applying for ESA - it doesn't stop automatically.
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