UK Disability Benefits Comparison Calculator

Key UK disability benefits are: PIP (Personal Independence Payment) for working-age adults, DLA (Disability Living Allowance) for children under 16, Attendance Allowance for over-pension-age adults, and ESA (Employment and Support Allowance) for those unable to work.

DLA is being replaced by PIP for working-age adults. Children under 16 still claim DLA. When a child reaches 16, they are invited to claim PIP instead. DLA and PIP have similar components but different assessment criteria.

If you reach pension credit qualifying age (currently 66) before PIP was introduced in your area, you claim Attendance Allowance (daily living needs only, no mobility component). Younger adults claim PIP.

No. PIP is not means-tested — it does not depend on savings, income, or National Insurance contributions. Everyone with the relevant disability needs qualifies, regardless of wealth.

Yes. PIP and ESA are separate benefits for different purposes. PIP covers extra disability costs; ESA covers income if you cannot work due to disability. Many people receive both.

The ESA Support Group is for those with the most severe conditions who cannot engage in any work-related activity. They receive a higher rate and are not required to attend work-focused interviews.

Call the DWP PIP claim line (0800 917 2222) to start a claim. You will receive a form (PIP2) to complete, followed by a face-to-face or telephone assessment.

PIP and DLA are not affected by working — they are disability benefits, not out-of-work benefits. You can work full-time and still receive full PIP.

Yes. Carers of people receiving PIP Daily Living (either rate), DLA middle/higher rate care, or Attendance Allowance (either rate) can claim Carer's Allowance (£81.90/week in 2025/26).

The two-child limit affects means-tested benefits (UC and tax credits), not disability benefits. PIP, DLA, ESA, and Attendance Allowance are unaffected by the number of children.

Request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month of the decision, then appeal to an independent tribunal if unsuccessful. The success rate at tribunal is around 70%.

Yes. Disabled workers can receive PIP (disability costs) plus Access to Work (workplace adjustments) and may qualify for the disability premium or limited capability for work-related activity element in UC.