Benefits for Veterans in the UK
If you have served in the UK Armed Forces, you may be entitled to specific benefits and support designed for veterans, as well as the standard benefits available to all UK residents. Whether your needs relate to a service-related injury or illness, mental health, housing, or income support, there could be a range of financial help available. The Armed Forces Covenant means that veterans and their families should not be disadvantaged by their service.
Check Your EligibilityArmed Forces-Specific Benefits
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) provides tax-free payments for service-related injuries, illnesses, and bereavements that occurred on or after 6 April 2005. The War Pension Scheme covers conditions caused by service before this date. Guaranteed Income Payments from the AFCS and War Disablement Pensions are disregarded as income when calculating means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, meaning they do not reduce your entitlement. Veterans can also access the Veterans UK helpline for support with claims and signposting.
Standard Benefits for Veterans
Veterans are eligible for all the same benefits as other UK residents. PIP may be particularly relevant if you have a physical injury or mental health condition (such as PTSD) resulting from your service. ESA and Universal Credit can provide income support if your health affects your ability to work. If you are over State Pension age, Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance may be available. War pensions and AFCS payments are generally disregarded when calculating means-tested benefits, which can be advantageous.
Benefits you may be eligible for
Based on this circumstance, you may want to check your eligibility for the following benefits. Eligibility depends on your individual situation.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For working-age adults whose health affects daily living or mobility.
Up to £184.30/wk
Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
For people whose health limits their ability to work.
Up to £138.20/wk
Universal Credit
Main means-tested benefit for working-age people on low income.
Varies by circumstance
Housing Benefit
Help with rent for people on low income.
Varies by area
Council Tax Reduction
Reduction on Council Tax for people on low income or receiving certain benefits.
Up to 100% discount
Industrial Injuries Benefit
For people who became ill or were injured as a result of their work.
Up to £219.40/wk
Blue Badge
Parking concession for people with mobility difficulties.
Carer's Allowance
For people who care for someone with a disability 35+ hours per week.
Up to £83.30/wk
Pension Credit
Tops up weekly income for people over State Pension age.
Up to £218.15/wk (couple)
Attendance Allowance
For people over State Pension age who need help with personal care.
Up to £110.40/wk
Frequently Asked Questions
Are my Armed Forces Compensation payments taken into account for benefits?
Can I claim PIP for PTSD or other service-related mental health conditions?
Check what benefits you could be entitled to
Our free eligibility checker covers 20+ UK benefits. It takes around 15 minutes and there is no obligation.
Check eligibilityCheck your eligibility for 20+ UK benefits
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Important: Benefits Robin is not affiliated with the DWP or UK Government. We provide information and assistance, not legal or financial advice. These are estimates based on your answers. Final decisions are made by the DWP.