If you served in the UK Armed Forces before 6 April 2005 and sustained an injury or illness caused or made worse by your service, you are covered by the War Pension Scheme (WPS). This scheme is distinct from the newer AFCS and carries its own set of complex rules.
Eligibility Criteria
The WPS is "no-fault." You do not have to prove the MOD was negligent, only that your condition is "attributable to service."
The Assessment Process
The MOD assesses your disability on a scale from 20% to 100%.
- Gratuity: If your assessment is under 20%, you usually receive a one-off lump sum.
- Pension: If your assessment is 20% or higher, you receive a weekly, tax-free pension for life.
Additional Supplements (The "Hustler" Path)
The basic War Pension is often just the beginning. To maximize your support, you should check eligibility for these supplements:
| Supplement | Who is it for? |
|---|---|
| Unemployability Supplement (UnSupp) | For those unable to work due to their service injury. |
| Constant Attendance Allowance (CAA) | For those needing daily care. Paid at four different rates. |
| War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) | A higher-tier mobility payment that also grants access to the Motability Scheme. |
| Allowance for Lowered Standard of Occupation (ALSO) | If you can still work but cannot return to your pre-injury career level. |
Maximize Your War Pension
Many veterans are under-assessed. We help identify missing supplements that could increase your weekly income by over £100.
Speak to a WPS SpecialistWar Pension FAQs
Q: Can I claim PIP if I have a War Pension?
A: Yes, you can claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) alongside a War Pension. However, if you receive Constant Attendance Allowance (CAA), your PIP Daily Living element will be reduced or not paid at all to prevent "double-funding" for the same care needs.
Q: Can I apply if I left the military years ago?
A: Yes. There is no time limit for claiming a War Pension, as long as you can show the condition was caused by service pre-2005.
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.