If I apply for LCWRA today will I be eligible for the current rate?

wonkydaze

My doctor has issued a 3 month sick note. I have no idea how to apply for LCWRA. I am currently receiving transitional protection so I've been wary to make any changes because it will be a small loss if I change over and I can't guarantee that I will even be awarded LCWRA. I was also waiting to hear about my PIP renewal and although I have been awarded standard for both I think I should be entitled to higher points in some areas, so need to do a MR. I have been trying to get advice but I'm struggling to get anyone to call me back in real life from benefit advice organisations.

My UC runs from the 1st of the month so am I too late to apply for the LCWRA to get the new rate now anyway?

Trevor_PIP

@wonkydaze please make sure you can increase your PIP award as a MR will look at your whole claim again and it may go up, go down or stop.

wonkydaze

Hi Trevor, I 'm trying to get advice through the disability advice services that the MS society uses. So I won't do anything in a hurry. My GP has written something for me today for the fit note so that might be helpful as well but I haven't read that yet. I'm just terrified of UC.

Kimi87

As long as your WCA for UC starts before April 2026, you'll get the higher rate.

Trevor_PIP

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1088856#Comment_1088856

Excellent!

wonkydaze

I'm sorry I don't know what that means, I know it stands for work capability assessment but is that as soon as I submit the fit note and a form then wait 3 months. Can't they just wait until after April then no one will be eligible? It's a bit confusing.

Kimi87

Anyone starting a Work Capability Assessment before April with a result of LCWRA will receive the higher LCWRA payment.

Anyone afterwards will receive the lower LCWRA payment rate.

The start date is counted from when you submit your first Fit Note.

A guide to the process here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition-quick-guide/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition