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Incapacity Benefit (Pensioners)

 
Incapacity Benefit is a benefit for people who are unable to work and have paid enough national insurance contributions.

Most older people will be better off claiming Retirement Pension instead of Incapacity Benefit but you should check your situation - call Greenwich Welfare Rights Service on the number on the right.

Who can claim

You can get short-term Incapacity Benefit of up to £84.50 a week for up to one year if:

  • your period of ill-health began before you reached pension age, and
  • you have not yet claimed your Retirement Pension.
You may get less Incapacity Benefit if you also receive a personal or works pension of more than £85 a week. But your benefit will not be reduced if you also receive Disability Living Allowance care component higher rate.

How to claim

Call your local Jobcentre Plus office on freephone 0800 055 6688. Remember to request a call back if you are ringing from a mobile phone. Alternatively, visit the Department for Work and Pensions website to claim online.

Further information

Contact Greenwich Welfare Rights Service using the number on the right or our online enquiry form for advice about Incapacity Benefit or any other benefits you may be able to claim.

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