If you’re living with a long-term health condition or disability, a recent announcement from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) might offer the help you’ve been waiting for.
The DWP has released a £749 payment aimed at easing financial pressures for people dealing with 27 specific conditions. But how do you know if you qualify, and what’s the process like? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you know exactly what to do next.
Overview
This one-off £749 payment isn’t just handed out to everyone on disability benefits. It’s tied to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which is designed for individuals who need help with daily living or mobility due to a health condition.
You don’t need to stress about whether this applies to you just yet—there’s a process, and we’re going to walk through it together.
Conditions
The DWP has outlined 27 health conditions that could make someone eligible for this financial support. These range from respiratory issues to neurological and chronic conditions. Here’s a snapshot:
Condition Category | Examples |
---|---|
Respiratory | Asthma, COPD, Pulmonary Fibrosis |
Neurological | Epilepsy |
Infectious/Chronic | Pneumonia, Sarcoidosis |
Occupational Diseases | Asbestosis, Silicosis |
Organ-related | Heart and Lung Transplantation |
Just having one of these conditions doesn’t mean you’re automatically eligible. It comes down to how much the condition affects your day-to-day life.
Eligibility
Wondering if you qualify? Eligibility is based on how your condition impacts two main areas:
- Daily Living: Are you struggling with tasks like dressing, preparing food, or managing medication?
- Mobility: Do you have trouble walking or moving around independently?
The DWP will assess this through a formal process—think of it like an interview with a health professional who evaluates your ability to function day-to-day.
Payment
Now, about that £749 payment. This isn’t a regular monthly benefit—it’s an additional sum that certain PIP recipients can receive. Typically, PIP is paid every four weeks, with two main components:
Component | Standard Rate | Enhanced Rate |
---|---|---|
Daily Living | £61.85 | £110.40 |
Mobility | £24.45 | £64.50 |
The extra £749 may be awarded if your assessment shows you need significant support in both areas.
Application
Applying for PIP—and potentially the £749 payout—is straightforward, though detailed. Here’s how it works:
- Check Your Condition: Does it match one of the 27 listed by the DWP?
- Gather Medical Evidence: Doctor’s notes, test results, treatment records—bring it all.
- Submit Application: You can do this online at www.gov.uk/pip or by post.
- Attend an Assessment: This might be a phone call or in-person meeting where a healthcare professional reviews your case.
- Wait for Decision: If approved, you’ll get a confirmation letter and the payment will be scheduled.
Timing
Why the early payments? Simple—because of the May Bank Holiday. To avoid delays, the DWP pushed payments forward to May 23 instead of the usual May 26. So if your review period fell around that time, you might’ve already seen the money in your account.
Support
If the application feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Charities like Citizens Advice and Disability Rights UK offer free help. Local welfare advisors can also assist you with forms or even attend assessments with you.
Reallife
Let’s take John as an example. He has COPD and couldn’t climb stairs or shop for groceries. After applying for PIP and attending the assessment, he was awarded both enhanced components—and received the £749 on top. That helped him afford mobility aids and even hire part-time care at home.
Extras
Besides PIP, other financial supports could be available:
- DLA – For children under 16 with care or mobility needs.
- ESA – For those who can’t work due to illness.
- Universal Credit – Additional financial help that may be topped up if you receive PIP.
Don’t miss out—it’s worth checking all your options.
Whether you’re dealing with daily pain, mobility struggles, or simply trying to manage a chronic condition, this DWP support can offer meaningful financial relief. If you think you qualify, don’t wait. Start the process now, gather your paperwork, and get the support you deserve.
FAQs
Who gets the £749 DWP payment?
People with long-term conditions who qualify for PIP.
Is the £749 payment automatic?
No, you must go through the PIP assessment process.
What conditions qualify for the payment?
27 listed conditions including COPD, asthma, epilepsy.
Can I apply for PIP online?
Yes, via the official UK Government PIP webpage.
When were early payments made?
May 23, 2025, due to the Bank Holiday.