Universal Credit claimants should be aware of significant changes to the health element, also known as Limited Capability for Work and Work-related Activity (LCWRA). This top-up payment, which provides additional financial support for people with health conditions and disabilities, has been revised with new eligibility criteria effective from 6 April 2026.
What Has Changed?
Previously, claimants who qualified for the health element received a flat rate of £423.27. Under the new rules, two separate rates have been introduced. The higher rate is now £429.80, while the lower rate is just £217.26—roughly half of the former payment. Which rate you receive depends on the nature of your health condition and when you declared it.
Who Qualifies for the Higher Rate?
Only two specific groups of disabled people are eligible for the higher £429.80 payment:
- Individuals with a severe health condition or disability that is unlikely to change
- People who are nearing the end of their life
If your condition is considered less severe or has the potential to improve over time, you will be placed on the lower rate. However, this distinction only applies to those who make a claim after 6 April 2026.
Criteria for Severe, Lifelong Conditions
According to government guidance, all of the following must apply for you to qualify as having a severe, lifelong condition:
- You cannot work due to your condition or disability
- Your condition or disability will last your whole life
- Your condition will not get better
- You have been officially diagnosed by a health professional
If you are assessed as having a severe, lifelong condition during the Work Capability Assessment (WCA), you will typically not be required to undergo another assessment. If you are approaching the end of life, you won't need to have a WCA at all.
Important Considerations for Couples
If you live with your partner and both of you have LCWRA, you will only receive one extra monthly amount. Should just one of you be entitled to the higher amount, that is what you will receive.
How to Report Your Health Condition
When applying for Universal Credit, you need to report if you have a health condition or disability. This can include details such as:
- Needing support in work
- Work needs to be suitable for your needs
- You are unable to work temporarily or long term because of your health
While claiming Universal Credit, you must report any change in your circumstances without delay. This includes any improvement or deterioration in your health condition, or if you receive a new diagnosis.
