Upcoming changes to Limited Capability for Work Related Activity (LCWRA) payments
As part of your monthly Universal Credit payment, you could receive an additional allowance element called Limited Capability for Work Related Activity (LCWRA) if you have a health condition or disability that limits how much work you can do. From 6th April 2026, this allowance will be reduced from £423.27 to £217.26 per month for new claimants.
To be eligible for the current allowance of £423.27, you should start to provide the first of three consecutive fit notes (also known as sick notes) to the Department for Work and Pensions by no later than 5th January 2026.
Please note if you currently receive the LCWRA element of Universal Credit, there will be no changes and there is no action to take.
For more information on LCWRA, please visit the Government’s website. You can also contact our Money Advice Team for free, confidential support and help accessing other benefits you may be entitled to by:
- visiting the My Onward Portal
- emailing customerservices@onward.co.uk
- calling 0300 555 0600* or messaging 07418 344 603 on WhatsApp between 8am-6pm Monday to Friday and 10am-6pm on Wednesdays