Universal credit severe conditions criteria

You may qualify for the SCC if:

• you have a permanent, medically recognised condition or disability
• your condition prevents you from doing any type of work
• your GP, consultant or specialist has confirmed your condition is unlikely to improve
• you’ve been assessed as having limited capability for work and work-related activity (LCWRA) and your case meets the SCC threshold

Among the health conditions that might qualify are:

• advanced neurological conditions, such as motor neurone disease and late-stage multiple sclerosis
• severe learning disabilities or developmental conditions
• terminal illnesses where life expectancy is limited

If you’re not sure whether or not you qualify, it could be worth speaking with a benefits adviser who can help you work out what you can claim.

If you currently claim universal credit and meet the SCC, you won’t be reassessed for the work capability assessment and you’ll keep getting the full universal credit health element (currently £97 a week).

And as long as your situation stays the same, your entitlement stays secure.

If you make a new universal credit claim after 6 April 2026 and you meet the SCC, you’ll still receive the full health element rate - the same amount current LCWRA claimants get today.

If you don’t meet the SCC but are found to have LCWRA, your health element will be around half the current amount.

If you think you meet the SCC and are entitled to the higher payment, there are several steps you should take.

Firstly, gather clear medical evidence, such as a letter from your doctor, consultant or specialist that confirms your condition is permanent and that it means you can’t work.

Next, update your universal credit journal or speak directly to your work coach about your situation.

No. Meeting the SCC doesn’t affect other benefits that you could be eligible for, such as personal independence payment (PIP), disability living allowance (DLA) and attendance allowance.

If your condition does improve, let the Department for Work and Pensions know straight away, so your universal credit claim can be reviewed.