Health conditions, disability and Universal Credit
If you have a Work Capability Assessment
After you’ve reported your health condition or disability, you may need to have a Work Capability Assessment. If you do, you’ll be sent a decision afterwards that says if you:
- are fit for work (also known as ‘capable for work’)
- need to prepare to work in the future, but have limited capability for work (LCW)
- have limited capability for work and work related activity (LCWRA)
The decision affects whether you’ll get the extra amount of Universal Credit.
You can still work if you feel able to, even if you’re told that you have limited capability for work or need to prepare for work in the future. You can earn up to a certain amount without it affecting the amount of Universal Credit you get. This is called a ‘work allowance’.
If you’re fit for work
You’ll need to agree to look for work that is suitable for your health condition.
You’ll get the standard allowance of Universal Credit based on your circumstances.
If you need to prepare to work in the future
You need to prepare to work in the future, but have limited capability for work now. You can work if you feel able to do so.
Your work coach will discuss your situation and agree steps to help you start preparing for work. For example, by writing a CV.
If you have limited capability for work and work related activity
You do not need to look for work or prepare for work. You can work if you feel able to do so.
You may get extra money as well as your standard allowance.
Your claimant commitment
You’ll need to agree to do certain things to keep getting Universal Credit. This is known as your ‘claimant commitment’.
Your commitment is based on your situation and may be affected by the decision after your Work Capability Assessment.
Reassessments
You’ll get a letter if you need another assessment in the future.
If you start working, you will not need to have another assessment unless your health condition changes.