The work capability assessment applies for Universal Credit and also
Employment and Support Allowance claimants. Many new claimants from April
2026 will only get a reduced increase (for being in the support group).
There are currently long waits for the medical assessment that usually
accompanies the work capability assessment. It's prudent to continue to
advise clients to pursue limited capability for work if possible before 6th April
2026. The government has confrmed- 'Where a new Universal Credit claimant
meets the three-month qualifying period for Limited Capability for Work and
Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) before April 2026, but the WCA is not
completed until after that date, the policy intent is that the LCWRA element
should be backdated to the relevant payment period in Universal Credit.'
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