Get benefits if you're nearing the end of life
If you already get benefits
If you’re nearing the end of life (for example, due to a life-limiting illness) you might be able to get your benefits at a higher rate.
This is sometimes called ‘special rules for end of life’.
If a medical professional has said you might have 12 months or less to live, you’ll need to:
- report this as a change in your circumstances
- ask your medical professional to fill out a form (known as an SR1) to confirm that you’re nearing the end of life
If a medical professional has not talked to you about how long you might live for, you can still ask if they’ll support your claim under the special rules for end of life.
Report a change of circumstances
Find out how to report a change of circumstances if you already get:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
- Attendance Allowance
- Universal Credit
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children
- DLA for adults
Submitting an SR1 form
Ask your doctor or medical professional to submit an SR1 form. Only medical professionals can access and complete the form. If they give you the completed form, there are instructions on the form for sending it by post.
You only need one SR1 form to be completed, even if you get more than one benefit.
If you want a copy of the completed form, you can ask your medical professional or call the ‘PIP enquiry line’.
PIP enquiry line
Telephone: 0800 121 4433
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 121 4433
British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service if you’re on a computer - find out how to use the service on mobile or tablet
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Find out about call charges