Understanding LCWRA Back Pay
What is LCWRA? Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity is an additional element of Universal Credit worth £416.19 per month (as of 2024/25).
Assessment Periods: Universal Credit is paid in monthly assessment periods. These are individual monthly cycles that start from your original Universal Credit claim date.
The 3-Month Waiting Period: Normally, you must wait three full assessment periods from when you first provide medical evidence (fit note) before LCWRA payments begin. This means back pay typically covers the period from the end of the 3-month wait until your LCWRA award decision date.
How We Calculate:
- We count the months between your fit note submission and decision letter dates
- We subtract the 3-month waiting period
- We multiply the remaining months by the monthly LCWRA rate
Important: This is an estimate only. Your actual back pay may differ based on your specific assessment period dates, any gaps in evidence, and other factors.
Your Estimated Back Pay
Calculation Breakdown
⚠️ Important Disclaimers
- This is an estimate only. Your actual back pay amount may differ from this calculation.
- The actual amount depends on your specific Universal Credit assessment period dates, which may not align exactly with calendar months.
- Special circumstances may affect your entitlement:
- Late submission of fit notes or medical evidence
- Gaps in medical evidence during the period
- Your partner already receiving the LCWRA element
- Being employed above the earnings threshold when you submitted your fit note
- Changes to your claim or circumstances during the period
- This calculator assumes a standard 3-month waiting period. Some claimants may have different waiting periods.
- Always check your official Universal Credit statement or contact DWP for your exact entitlement.