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Incapacity Benefit

Incapacity Benefit is only paid to existing claimants and is for people of working age who cannot work because of illness or disability and who are not entitled to Statutory Sick Pay, or Statutory Sick Pay has run out. Entitlement usually depends upon your National Insurance record (except some young adults), and may be subject to a medical assessment. From October 2008 Employment Support Allowance replaced Incapacity Benefit for new claimants.


Note: this leaflet gives a brief summary of Incapacity Benefit and is for guidance only. It does not cover all situations, nor is it a full statement of the law. Sources of further more detailed information are given at the end.

How much is Incapacity Benefit?

Incapacity Benefit is payable at three rates, depending upon the length of time you have been unable to work. The basic rates below are as published on the Directgov website in April 2011. They usually go up each April.

  • Short-term lower rate (for first 28 weeks of being unable to work) - £71.10 a week.
  • Short-term higher rate (for weeks 29-52 of being unable to work) - £84.15 a week.
  • Long-term rate (for after 52 weeks of being unable to work) - £94.25 a week.

Over state pension age:

  • Short-term lower rate (for first 28 weeks of being unable to work) - £90.45 a week.
  • Short-term higher rate (for weeks 29-52 of being unable to work) - £94.25 a week.

Note: the rules for benefits can sometimes become complicated. The amounts shown above are a guide and your individual circumstances may affect the amount that you get. For example:

  • Some rates are taxable.
  • You may be entitled to additional money or benefits if you have adult dependants.
  • You may get an 'age addition' if you are on the long-term rate and were under 45 when you first became incapable of work.
  • You may be entitled to the long-term rate after 28 weeks of being unable to work if you get the highest rate care component of Disability Living Allowance or you are terminally ill.
  • You cannot get Incapacity Benefit if you receive a state pension. However, when you reach the state pension age and are claiming Incapacity Benefit, you may choose to continue receiving Incapacity Benefit for a few further years if that is a better option. You may need to take advice on which is the best option.

If you are not sure about how much you should be getting, and how it may affect other benefits, then seek expert help and advice. (See below for sources of help and advice.)

Payment is usually made directly into a bank account, building society account, Post Office account, or National Savings account.

Can you work while getting Incapacity Benefit?

Incapacity Benefit is usually stopped if you start work, but check with your local Jobcentre Plus office for up-to-date rules. You can do a small amount of permitted work without your benefits being affected.

Further information, help and advice

Directgov

Web: www.direct.gov.uk
Directgov brings together the widest range of public service information and services online.
Produced by the Central Office of Information, Directgov provides information from across UK government departments on topics ranging from travel safety and parental leave, to special educational needs, local NHS services, and benefits. The site also brings together an increasing number of online government services - including being able to download and/or complete certain benefit claim forms online.

Citizens Advice Bureau

Provides independent advice on many issues including benefits. Listed in the phone book under 'Citizens Advice Bureaux'. Also, see their excellent website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Department for Work and Pensions

Their website provides a list of claim forms that you can download or fill in online for benefits, allowances, pensions and other payments - www.dwp.gov.uk/eservice/
Contact details of their local offices (Jobcentre Plus offices and other 'social security' offices) can usually be found in the phone book under 'Jobcentre Plus'.

References and Disclaimer | Provide feedback

References

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.
© EMIS 2011    Reviewed: 12 Apr 2011   DocID: 4478   Version: 41
For the planned review period see the Data Creation and Quality Control Process.