Having a long-term condition like MS can create a problem - your ability to earn an income may go down because of health problems, but the cost of living could go up for the same reason.  For many people, MS can bring financial challenges.  Even if you are still working there may be benefits you can claim. If it is not feasible to carry on in your current job, but you think you could work in a different capacity, you might want to look at our section on work to find out how you can manage under changing financial circumstances.  If you cannot work because of your MS, there may be a variety of benefits you can claim. The benefits system is complex, and the rules often change. It is often worth seeking expert advice from a benefits adviser – getting in touch with your local Citizens Advice Bureau is a good first step.

The list below gives an idea about which benefits you may be eligible for. For more information, the Direct Gov website may be of some use. If you need to get your benefit entitlements worked out because your circumstances are changing, your local Citizens Advice Bureau can do this for you.  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. The MS Society publication Benefits and MS has more information.

You can call the Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 88 22 00 if you need an application form for any benefit.

Income Support

If you are aged between 16 and 60, on a low income, not working or working on average less than 16 hours a week you can claim Income Support. Income Support is affected by savings – you should check what you are entitled to with a benefits adviser.

If you are receiving income support you will also automatically qualify for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit, and may receive help towards health costs, such as prescriptions.

Council Tax

You may be entitled to a reduction in your Council Tax bill if your home has certain features that are essential to you living there - for example, if you have an extension for a downstairs bedroom. If it puts your property into a higher valuation banding, there may be a one-band reduction in your bill.

Housing and Council Tax Benefit

Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit are paid by local councils. If you are on a low income and paying rent you can claim Housing Benefit.

If you are on a low income and paying Council Tax, you can claim Council Tax Benefit.

Working Tax Credit

If you are in work but on low pay, you can apply for Working Tax Credit to top-up your earnings. You may get extra if someone in your household is disabled.

Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

You can claim this benefit if you need help getting around and/or looking after yourself because you are ill or disabled. You must claim before you reach age 65 - if you are over 65, you can claim Attendance Allowance instead.

It's a good idea to make multiple copies of your letter stating that you have been awarded DLA, as many organisations which offer discounts will need to see it - for example, bus and rail companies.

Community care grant

If you need financial help to live independently, or to ease exceptional pressure on you and your family, you may be able to get a Community Care Grant. Check the Benefits and MS publication for advice on this and other grants and benefits.

Independent Living Fund

The Independent Living Fund (ILF) is a national resource dedicated to providing financial support for disabled people, enabling you to live independently. The ILF can ‘top up’ the funding available from the local authority to provide you with help for personal support. In order to get money from the Independent Living Fund, you must first have services from the local authority. Your local authority should inform you If you are eligible to apply to the Independent Living Fund.