We have just rec'd our paperwork requesting us to fill in an I & E sheet (2nd year review)
Our IP is grant thornton(prev. Wilson Phillips)
What it is,is that our 6 year old son has Asperger Syndrome (a form of Autism),and he was awarded DLA in Feb this year.
I have not told the IP about this, however, this is due to my hours decreasing in work from June (as I need to spend more time with my son), so some of the DLA would of been cancelled out by loss of salary. The rest is spent of Private Swimming lessons, Tutoring, extra clothes, etc.
I am now worried, however, that we will get into trouble with the IP, for not declaring the DLA when it was first awarded.
As far as I am concerned, the DLA has been awarded to your son, not you. It is to be used to make life easier for him.
I don't think you will have any problems at all.
I am sure one of the experts will be on later to confirm this.
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The DLA should have been counted as extra income. However, any expenses from your childs disability can be offset against it. As a mother of a 6 year old Autistic son, i know there will be quite a lot of expenses. There is with mine just to keep him occupied.
I would have a chat with your IP about it and see what he/she says but if the expenses swallow it up then so be it.
I would expect all of the DLA to be absorbed in additional costs Emma - your little boy should not suffer as a result of your lost income in needing to spend more time with him.