If you become disabled because of an accident at work, or if you develop a "prescribed disease" caused by your job, you may be entitled to Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB).
1. The 'Prescribed Disease' List
The DWP has a list of over 70 conditions they recognize as being caused by specific jobs. Common examples include:
- Occupational Asthma: Caused by exposure to chemicals or dust.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Caused by using vibrating tools.
- Asbestosis / Mesothelioma: Caused by exposure to asbestos.
- Occupational Deafness: Caused by high noise levels in factories or construction.
2. 2026 Payment Rates Table
IIDB is not means-tested and is paid regardless of your income or savings. The amount depends on your Percentage of Disablement (determined by a medical assessor).
| Disablement Level | Weekly Rate (2026) |
|---|---|
| 100% Disablement | £217.20 |
| 50% Disablement | £108.60 |
| 20% Disablement (Minimum) | £43.44 |
🚀 The Hustler's Strategy: The 'Constant Attendance' Bonus
Already getting IIDB at the 100% rate? You might be missing out on "Top-Up" bonuses.
Keyword Strategy: If your work disability is so severe that you need daily care, you can apply for **Constant Attendance Allowance (CAA)**. In 2026, this can add up to **£86.90 a week** on top of your IIDB. If you get CAA and are "exceptionally severely disabled," you can also trigger the **Exceptionally Severe Disablement Allowance (£86.90)**. These bonuses are NOT means-tested and are paid on top of PIP.
3. Impact on Universal Credit
Warning: While IIDB is non-means-tested, Universal Credit treats it as income. Every pound of IIDB you receive is deducted from your UC award "pound-for-pound." However, if you are not on UC (e.g. you are on State Pension), you keep the full IIDB payment.
IIDB FAQs
Can I claim for an accident that happened years ago?
Yes, as long as the accident happened after 5 July 1948. There is no time limit for claiming, but you won't get back-payments for the years you missed.
Can I work while on IIDB?
Yes. You can work full-time and earn any amount of money without it affecting your IIDB payments.
Author Profile
Benefit Experts Editorial Team
Benefit Experts Team – Independent UK benefits guidance. We provide independent, authoritative guidance to help UK citizens navigate the complex benefits system with confidence.