LCW to LCWRA backdated payments?

Zen26797

Hello,

Hoping someone can please advise. I was awarded LCW about a year ago. Since then I have had a new diagnosis and was issued a fit note due to functional decline. I submitted a health change in my UC journal.
Key dates - 04/05/2025 Fitnote issued

Health change and fitnote dates submitted to UC 16/05/2025

UC50 was issued and received by the Assessment Centre 19/07/2025

I’m yet to have a decision or assessment to determine whether I’m eligible for LCWRA. I also sent GP letters and relevant supporting letters from other agencies supporting a paper based assessment as I had strong evidence (multiple consultation notes, psychiatry diagnosis reports, occupational therapy reports, carer statements ect). I’ve not had any contact from them so I’m assuming paperbased decision is going ahead (hopefully).

From what I think I understand there is no 3 assessment wait period to start payments as I’m already on LCW.

If I am awarded LCWRA would be backdated to the change of health that I reported in my UC journal? The fitnote? Or would it be that three AP must go through first.

My Assessment periods start 4th each month.

thank you for your help 🙂

Kimi87

There is no waiting period for LCW to LCWRA, that is for brand new claims only.

If you meet both conditions below you will be eligible for backpay dating to when you reported the change.

1. You submitted a change due to worsening health.
2. You submitted a Fit Note and provided continuous Fit Notes with no gaps* up until the LCWRA decision.

*It is the date you give them to UC that counts, not the start date written on them.

Backdated Fit Notes are generally not accepted.

If you do not meet both those conditions and are awarded LCWRA, then payment first applies in the Assessment Period in which the decision is made.

Unfortunately there are long waits for WCA's at the moment, so I wouldn't assume a paper based assessment. Most people have full assessments.

You can always enquire with the health assessment provider directly as to likely waiting times.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/find-your-health-assessment-provider

Zen26797

hi thank you for your reply @Kimi87 and you’re help! I’m aware of the longer wait times and that the assessment format could change.

I was advised by the UC work coach I wouldn’t need to submit further fit notes after the one issued on the 04/05/2025?

Kimi87

Continuous Fit Notes ensure backpay, but aren't actually needed in order for the reassessment process itself to continue.

Work coaches aren't trained benefits advisors, they administer claims and often give incorrect advice.

In your case if you are awarded LCWRA you will first be eligible for payment in the AP that the decision is made.

Zen26797

@Kimi87 Thank you for your help 🙂💐

Mary_Scope

Hi @Zen26797 and a warm welcome to the community from me

I see Kimi has already answered your question and given some god advice so I won't add anything new today but its lovely to have you here and I hope you enjoy your time on the community😄