The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that qualifying veterans could receive up to £12,471 annually through the War Pension Scheme (WPS).
This important but often overlooked scheme provides tax-free financial support for those who suffered an illness, injury, or disability while serving in the armed forces before 6 April 2005.
With payments increasing yearly in line with inflation, the scheme ensures veterans and their families receive vital financial assistance. Below, we break down who qualifies, how much you can receive, and how to apply.
What Is the War Pension Scheme?
The War Pension Scheme compensates veterans whose health has been negatively affected by their armed forces service. It applies to those who served before April 2005 and covers both physical and mental health conditions.
Applicants are assessed by a medical advisor and placed on a disablement scale ranging from 1% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the larger the entitlement.
How Much Can You Get?
The maximum amount available under the scheme is £12,471 per year, which equals £239.00 per week for those assessed at 100% disablement. Payments are tax-free and can be made weekly or monthly.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the current disablement payment rates valid for April 2025 – March 2026:
| Disablement % | Weekly Payment (£) | Yearly Equivalent (£) |
|---|---|---|
| 100 % | 239.00 | 12,471 |
| 90 % | 215.10 | 11,224 |
| 80 % | 191.20 | 9,977 |
| 70 % | 167.30 | 8,730 |
| 60 % | 143.40 | 7,483 |
| 50 % | 119.50 | 6,236 |
| 40 % | 95.60 | 4,988 |
| 30 % | 71.70 | 3,741 |
| 20 % | 47.80 | 2,494 |
Those assessed with less than 20% disablement do not receive ongoing payments but instead qualify for a tax-free lump-sum gratuity.
Eligibility & Assessment
Eligibility depends on whether your injury, illness, or condition was caused or made worse by your service in the armed forces before 6 April 2005.
Key points of the assessment include:
- Under 20% Disablement: You receive a one-off lump-sum payment.
- 20% and Above: You receive regular weekly or monthly tax-free payments.
- Physical & Mental Conditions Covered: Both physical injuries and mental health conditions, such as PTSD, are considered.
- Annual Uplift: Payments rise every year in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to protect against inflation.
Additional Notes
- The rules and values of the scheme are set by Parliament.
- The scheme is separate from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, which applies to those injured on or after 6 April 2005.
- Payment rates are regularly reviewed to ensure fairness and are updated annually.
How to Apply
Applying is straightforward, but you will need to provide detailed information. You can apply online through the government’s website or request a paper form.
Details Required for Application:
- Your doctor’s details and any hospitals where you received treatment
- Your bank account information
- Your National Insurance number
- Service details, including dates served in the Armed Forces
- The injury or illness being claimed for and how it relates to your service
- Any charities or welfare advisors helping you with the claim
- Details of other benefits or compensation you currently receive or have received
- An email address (for online claims)
Special Note for UKSF Applicants
If you have ever served in the United Kingdom Special Forces (UKSF), you must first seek clearance from the MOD A Block Disclosure Cell. In this case, you may be asked to apply for an Express Prior Authority in Writing (EPAW) and will be given a reference number to use when submitting your claim.
Quick Scheme Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Annual Payment | £12,471 (100% disablement, tax-free) |
| Assessment Scale | 1% to 100% disablement based on medical evaluation |
| Under 20% | Lump-sum gratuity |
| 20% and Over | Ongoing weekly or monthly tax-free payments |
| Annual Increase | Adjusted in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) |
| Eligible Period | Service before 6 April 2005 |
| Separate Scheme | Post-2005 cases fall under Armed Forces Compensation Scheme |
| Application Process | Online or via Veterans UK Helpline |
| Required Info | Medical, service, and financial details |
| Special Forces Rule | Must secure EPAW approval before applying |
The War Pension Scheme is a vital financial support system for UK veterans injured or made ill through their service before April 2005. With annual payments reaching up to £12,471, it ensures those who sacrificed for their country receive fair compensation.
Whether you are entitled to a lump-sum gratuity or ongoing weekly payments, this scheme offers both recognition and much-needed financial relief. Veterans and their families should check their eligibility and apply as soon as possible to access this support.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £12,471 payment?
Veterans who served before 6 April 2005 and are assessed with 100% disablement due to service-related illness or injury.
How are disablement levels decided?
A medical advisor evaluates your case and assigns a percentage score (1%–100%). The higher the score, the higher the payment.
How do I apply for the scheme?
You can apply online or request a paper form via the Veterans UK Helpline. Be prepared to provide your medical records, service details, National Insurance number, and bank information.