The Universal Credit health element, known as Limited Capability for Work and Work-related Activity (LWCRA), provides extra financial support to over two million claimants with health conditions or disabilities. This supplement helps cover additional living costs and reduced income due to these conditions.
Changes from April 6
Since April 6, the eligibility criteria for this supplement have been revised, establishing two distinct rates. Previously, all qualifying claimants received a single payment of £423.27. Now, only two highly specific groups of disabled people qualify for the higher rate, while others receive half of that amount.
Current payment rates
The higher rate now stands at £429.80, and the lower rate at £217.26—roughly half of the previous single payment. The rate you receive depends on the nature of your health condition and when you reported it.
Who qualifies for the higher rate?
To qualify for the higher rate, you must belong to one of two categories:
- Have a severe health condition or disability that is unlikely to change
- Be nearing the end of your life
If your condition is considered less serious or has potential to improve, you will receive the lower rate. However, this only applies to people who submit applications after April 6, 2026.
Criteria for severe lifelong condition
To be considered as having a severe lifelong condition according to Government guidance, all of the following criteria must be met:
- 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 identified as having a severe lifelong condition during the Work Capability Assessment (WCA), you will generally not be required to undergo another assessment. If you are approaching the end of life, you will not need to complete a WCA at all.
Additional rules for couples
If you live with your partner and both have LWCRA, you will only receive one additional monthly payment. Should only one of you be entitled to the higher amount, then that higher amount is what you will receive.
How to apply
When making a Universal Credit application, you need to declare any health condition or disability. This may include details such as:
- Needing support at work
- Work needing to be suitable for your needs
- Being unable to work temporarily or long-term because of your health
While claiming Universal Credit, you must notify the relevant authorities of any change in your circumstances as promptly as possible. This includes any improvement or deterioration in your health condition, or if you receive a new diagnosis.
