As of 6 April 2026, the Universal Credit (UC) "health element"—previously known as the Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) element—has changed from a single payment to a two-tier system.
The Two Rates
Higher Rate: £429.80 per month. This is the "protected" rate, maintained from the previous single LCWRA amount and adjusted for inflation.
Lower Rate: £217.26 per month. This new rate is approximately half of the previous amount and will be frozen until April 2030.
Who Gets Which Rate?
The rate you receive depends primarily on when you claimed and the severity of your condition:
You will get the Higher Rate (£429.80) if: You were already entitled to LCWRA before 6 April 2026.
You reported your health condition and asked for an assessment before 6 April 2026, and the DWP subsequently decided you have LCWRA.
You are a new claimant who is terminally ill.
You are a new claimant who meets the new "severe conditions criteria" (a lifelong condition diagnosed by an NHS professional that severely limits daily activity).
You migrated from the Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) Support Group without a gap in your claim.
You will get the Lower Rate (£217.26) if: You are a new claimant (reporting your health condition on or after 6 April 2026) and do not meet the severe or terminal illness criteria. Citizens Advice +7
Important Context
Standard Allowance Increase: To offset these cuts for some, the government has implemented above-inflation increases to the Universal Credit standard allowance for all claimants through 2030.
One Payment Per Household: If you live with a partner and you both have LCWRA, your household only receives one extra monthly amount. If one partner is eligible for the higher rate, the household receives that higher rate.