What Disability Benefits Can I Claim in the UK?

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA). PIP is designed for those with a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability. You must be aged 16 or over to claim PIP and usually be under State Pension age when making a new claim. You must expect to have difficulties for at least 12 months. You can get PIP even if you are working.

PIP is made up of two components: the daily living component and the mobility component. The daily living component helps with everyday activities, while the mobility component helps with difficulties getting around. Eligibility is based on how the condition affects daily living and mobility, rather than simply having a particular diagnosis.

The amount you receive depends on your abilities. For 2026/27, the daily living component is £76.70 or £114.60 per week, while the mobility component is £30.30 or £80.00 per week.

If you’re nearing the end of life (for example, due to a life-limiting illness) you might be able to get Personal Independence Payment (PIP) more quickly and at a higher rate. This is sometimes called ‘special rules for end of life’.

Attendance Allowance is designed for those with a disability who are State Pension age or older.

For 2026/27, Attendance Allowance is £76.70 or £114.60 per week. It helps with the extra costs of personal care if you need help looking after yourself or supervision to stay safe. It does not cover mobility needs.

Those in Scotland need to apply for Pension Age Disability Payment instead of Attendance Allowance.

Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) can provide financial support if an illness or disability affects your ability to work. You can usually claim New Style ESA if you’re employed, self-employed or unemployed, provided you meet the eligibility requirements. A Work Capability Assessment is used to assess how your health condition affects your ability to work.

You may receive up to £95.55 a week if you’re in the work-related activity group and up to £145.90 a week if you’re in the support group (2026/27 rates).

You could get Universal Credit at the same time or instead of New Style ESA.

Carer’s Allowance is extra money to help you look after someone with substantial caring needs. You usually need to care for them for at least 35 hours a week, and the person you care for must receive a qualifying disability benefit. For 2026/27, Carer's Allowance is £86.45 a week, subject to eligibility. You do not get any extra funds if you are looking after more than one person.

Carer’s Credit is also available so there are no gaps in NI record if you have to take on a caring responsibility.

Depending on additional circumstances you might also be able to get:

• Industrial Injuries Benefit if you’re disabled because of work.
• Constant Attendance Allowance if you need daily care and attention because of a disability.

Universal Credit helps with your living costs. You may be entitled to claim if you're on a low income, out of work or are unable to work.

Universal Credit is replacing Housing Benefit and income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

To claim you must live in the UK and be under State Pension age. You normally need to be 18 or over to claim Universal Credit, although some 16 and 17-year-olds may be eligible in specific circumstances. You usually cannot claim Universal Credit if you have more than £16,000 in savings or investments. If you live with a partner you will both need to claim Universal Credit. You must make a joint claim for your household, even if your partner is not eligible.

Students with disabilities can claim Universal Credit if you’re in full-time education, and have been assessed as having limited capability for work by a Work Capability Assessment before starting your course.