Thousands of people claiming Universal Credit because of a health condition are now receiving significantly less support than those who applied just a few months earlier.
The changes came into force in April and could leave some new claimants more than £2,500 a year worse off.
A major overhaul of Universal Credit's health-related support took effect on 6 April 2026, reducing the amount available to many new applicants.
The changes affect the Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) element, often referred to as the Universal Credit health element.
This is an extra payment for people whose health condition or disability severely limits their ability to work.
Under the new rules, people who make a successful claim now receive £217.26 a month, compared with £432.27 under the previous system.
The reforms were introduced as part of the Government's wider welfare changes, which became law earlier this year.
As a result, new claimants are receiving £215.01 less each month than people who qualified before the changes took effect. Over a year, that amounts to a difference of more than £2,580.
Universal Credit is the primary out-of-work benefit administered by the DWP | GETTYFor many households already facing high living costs, the reduction could have a significant impact on their finances.
A spokesperson for Life Pro commented: "Most people assume government support stays relatively stable, but changes like this show how quickly household finances can shift.
"A reduction of more than £2,580 a year could have a noticeable impact on budgeting, particularly for those already facing extra costs linked to a health condition."
Those already receiving the higher LCWRA payment before the April changes remain unaffected, with their existing entitlement protected under the new framework.
Universal Credit 'difficulties' for millions left waiting for payments under DWP rule | GETTY Certain categories of new applicants may still access the full £432.27 rate despite the reforms, including individuals diagnosed with the most severe or lifelong medical conditions and those approaching the end of their lives.
Ministers have stated the restructured system aims to direct resources more precisely toward people with the greatest needs whilst simultaneously promoting workforce participation where feasible.
Each application undergoes individual assessment, meaning not all claimants reporting health issues will automatically qualify for supplementary financial assistance.
Individuals affected by health conditions or disabilities should promptly notify the Department for Work and Pensions through their Universal Credit online account and comply with any subsequent requests, including attending Work Capability Assessments.
Understanding these changes remains essential for anyone navigating the reformed system
| GETTYGuidance on entitlements is available via GOV.UK, whilst free benefits calculators offered by organisations such as Turn2Us and Policy in Practice can help clarify what support may be accessible.
The Life Pro spokesperson added: "This is where financial planning matters.
"Even small changes in income can affect long-term stability, so it's important people understand what they may be entitled to and think ahead where possible."
Understanding these changes remains essential for anyone navigating the reformed system.