The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers essential financial support to individuals facing challenges due to disabilities, health conditions, or caregiving duties. If you qualify for one of four key benefits, you could receive up to £9,747 per year. This guide explains each benefit, who qualifies, payment amounts, and how to apply.
Programs
The DWP runs several targeted benefits to help people manage daily living, mobility issues, or caring responsibilities. These benefits aim to improve quality of life and provide stability for those in need.
PIP
Personal Independence Payment supports individuals aged 16 to state pension age who struggle with daily activities or mobility because of a long-term health condition or disability.
How it works
PIP has two parts:
- Daily Living Component: Helps with tasks such as cooking, dressing, and managing medication.
- Mobility Component: Covers costs for getting around.
Rates 2025
- Daily Living: £72.65 (standard) or £110.40 (enhanced) per week
- Mobility: £29.20 (standard) or £77.05 (enhanced) per week
Maximum Annual Total: £9,747
Applications can be made by phone at 0800 917 2222 or online via the PIP claim service. Most applicants will need an assessment to explain how their condition affects them.
DLA
Disability Living Allowance is for children under 16 with extra care or mobility needs. Although replaced by PIP for adults, it remains a vital source of help for young people.
Rates
- Care Component: £25.20 to £81.20 weekly
- Mobility Component: £25.20 to £59.20 weekly
Eligibility
The child must need more care or supervision than others of the same age, have had the condition for at least three months, and expect it to last at least six more.
Applications can be made online or by post.
Attendance
Attendance Allowance supports people over state pension age who need help with personal care due to physical or mental disability. It does not include a mobility element.
Rates
- Lower: £68.10 per week
- Higher: £101.75 per week
Eligibility requires care needs lasting at least six months unless the applicant is terminally ill. Funds are often used for home adaptations, carers, or special equipment.
Applications are made by post using forms from GOV.UK.
Carer’s
Carer’s Allowance is for those providing at least 35 hours of weekly care to someone receiving qualifying benefits.
Rate: £83.30 per week
Eligibility
- Must care for someone receiving PIP, DLA, or similar
- Earnings after expenses must be under £181 per week
Claiming Carer’s Allowance can open access to other benefits like Pension Credit or Universal Credit. Applications can be submitted online with supporting documents.
Claiming
- Use the benefits calculator on GOV.UK to check eligibility.
- Prepare documents such as medical records and ID.
- Follow the specific application process for each benefit.
- Attend assessments if required.
- Track your application and follow up if there are delays.
Recipients of PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, or Carer’s Allowance have already seen a 1.7% increase from 7 August 2025, bringing maximum yearly support to £9,747. Payments are automatic, but if you do not currently receive these benefits, you will need to apply.
FAQs
Which four benefits are included?
PIP, DLA, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance.
What is the maximum annual amount?
Up to £9,747 for those on highest rates.
Do I need to apply for the uplift?
No, it’s automatic for current recipients.
Can I claim more than one benefit?
Yes, if you meet each eligibility rule.
How do I check my rate?
See your DWP award letter or online portal.
