Get benefits if you're nearing the end of life
Claiming benefits under special rules
If you’re nearing the end of life (for example, due to a life-limiting illness) you might be able to get certain benefits more quickly and at a higher rate.
This is sometimes called ‘special rules for end of life’.
There are different rules if you live in Scotland.
This guide is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).
Find out how to claim under special rules if:
Check if you’re eligible to claim under special rules
You’re eligible for the special rules if both of the following apply:
- you have an illness that gets worse over time
- your doctor or medical professional has said you might have 12 months or less to live
If a medical professional has not talked to you about how long you might live for, you can ask if they’ll support your claim under the special rules for end of life.
Medical professionals include:
- GPs
- hospital doctors
- registered nurses (for example, Macmillan nurses or specialist nurses)
Check which benefits you’re eligible for
If you’re applying under the special rules, you must still be eligible for the benefit. Each benefit has different eligibility criteria.
You may be eligible for more than one benefit at the same time.
If you’ve reached State Pension age
You can apply for Attendance Allowance.
If you’re under State Pension age
The benefits you can apply for are:
If your child is nearing the end of life
If you have a child under 16 who is nearing the end of life you can apply for:
How to apply under the special rules
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Check you’re eligible for the benefit.
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Apply for the benefit, saying that you’re claiming under the special rules for end of life.
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Ask your doctor or medical professional to complete an SR1 form to confirm that you’re nearing the end of life. They will have the form.
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Your medical professional sends the form to the relevant government department, or you can send it yourself. The address is on the form.
You only need one SR1 form to be completed, even if you’re applying for more than one benefit.
Help and support
If you need support after your diagnosis or with applying for benefits you can get help from the following organisations:
- Marie Curie - care and support at the end of life
- Together for Short Lives - support for seriously ill children and their families
- Rainbow Trust - support for families with seriously ill children
- Macmillan Cancer Support - practical and emotional support at the end of life
- Citizens Advice - for financial advice and support
- Money Helper - advice on money and benefits