Health conditions, disability and Universal Credit
Claiming Universal Credit if you’re nearing the end of life
If you’re nearing the end of life (for example, due to a life-limiting illness) you might be able to get Universal Credit more quickly and at a higher rate.
This is sometimes called ‘special rules for end of life’.
You may be able to get other benefits if you’re nearing the end of life.
Eligibility
You’re usually eligible if:
- you’re 16 or older, but under State Pension age
- you live in the UK
- you have £16,000 or less in money, savings and investments
- your doctor or medical professional has said you might have 12 months or less to live
It can be difficult to predict how long someone might live for. If a medical professional has not talked to you about this, you can still ask them to support your claim under the special rules for end of life.
How to claim
Ask a medical professional for form SR1. They’ll either fill it in and give the form to you or send it directly to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Apply for Universal Credit online. When you apply, you’ll be asked if a medical professional has said you might have 12 months or less to live. You’ll also be asked if you’d like the Universal Credit team to call you to help you make your claim.
You will not need to have a Work Capability Assessment or make a Claimant Commitment.
If you already get Universal Credit
Ask a medical professional for form SR1. They’ll either fill it in and give the form to you or send it directly to DWP.
If you’ve already sent form SR1 for another benefit, for example Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you do not need to send it again.
Report the change online through your Universal Credit account. You’ll be asked if you’d like the Universal Credit team to call you about your claim. They will explain if there’s anything else you need to do.