Welfare Rights on the Net

Incapacity Benefit for Youths (Under 20’s some under 25’s)

People who have been incapable of work for over 28 weeks before age 20, or age 25 if they have continually been in education since before age 20. If they do not already have Severe Disablement Allowance, you could get Incapacity Benefit without needing to satisfy the National Insurance Contribution Conditions.

You must be at least 16 when you claim. If you are aged 16, 17, or 18 you will usually not be entitled if you are still at school or college for over 21 hours weekly. Any education that is not suitable for someone (without any disabilities) of the same age as your self should not count towards this 21hour limit.

Always put in a claim for Income Support at the same time. As you would normally get a top up. If you do not get Incapacity Benefit then the qualifying conditions for Income Support, are easier to meet so you might be paid this instead anyway. Your parent will have to give up Child Benefit if you are paid either.

NOTE:
This 28 week qualifying period can be before age 16, ask your doctor for a back dated sick line.

DISCLAIMER - Although every effort is made to ensure the information on these pages is accurate and up to date, we cannot be held liable for any inaccuracies and their consequences. The information should not be treated as a complete and authoritative statement of the law. If you wish to know more about your benefit rights, you should seek independent advice.