What benefits can I claim?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can affect your finances so it is worth checking to see whether there are any benefits you could claim.

Even if you have looked into it before, it is worth getting your entitlements checked regularly as the rules for existing benefits are frequently updated and new benefits are introduced. The main changes take place on 5 April each year, so mid April may be a good time to have an annual benefits check at a local advice agency. In addition, if the symptoms of your MS get worse it is worth arranging a benefits check, particularly if any progression in your MS looks like it will be long-term.

Be aware that many benefits overlap, so if you receive one there may be others that you consequently cannot receive. In addition, there are often conditions relating to how much income or savings you can have or how many hours you can work. The rules about some benefits may also vary between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Always get advice from an advice agency about which benefits you are entitled to and, if there is a choice, which it would be best to claim.

I am too ill to work at all at the moment, but I do have a job

I am too ill to work at all and I do not have a job

I am unemployed but available for and actively seeking work

I am working less than 16 hours a week

I am working 16 hours or more a week

I am too ill to work, but I can do 'Permitted Work'

I am under 16 and live at home

I do not have MS but I want to claim because I look after someone who does

Please Note

This is not a complete list of benefits. It does not include certain age related benefits (such as State Pension), or all of those related to caring for children (such as Child Benefit), or benefits for special situations (such as industrial injuries benefits, maternity benefits or bereavement benefits).

Last Updated

Reviewed by: Ian Greaves, Disability Rights Handbook editor, Disability Alliance. May 2005.