As household budgets tighten across the UK, many people may not realise they could be missing out on up to £1,708 per month in financial support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
If you’re dealing with a long-term illness, unemployment, or simply a low income, you might qualify for a combination of three key benefits: Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
This total amount isn’t guaranteed for everyone, but many are missing out simply because they haven’t checked what they’re entitled to. Here’s how these benefits work and how you can apply.
Table of Contents
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is a monthly benefit designed for people who are unemployed or working on a low income. It replaces several older benefits and aims to simplify the system. The amount depends on your age, household situation, and whether you have children, health issues, or housing costs.
As of July 2025, these are the standard rates:
| Category | Monthly Rate |
|---|---|
| Single under 25 | £311.68 |
| Single 25 or over | £393.45 |
| Couple both under 25 | £489.23 |
| Couple one 25 or over | £578.82 |
Extra support is available if you have children, rent payments, or health problems. To qualify, you must be over 18, under State Pension age, and have less than £16,000 in savings. You apply online through the official Universal Credit portal.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
PIP is for people aged 16 to State Pension age with a long-term physical or mental health condition that affects their daily life or mobility. It is not means-tested, so income and savings do not affect your eligibility.
There are two parts to PIP:
| Component | Standard Rate | Enhanced Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £72.65 | £108.55 |
| Mobility | £28.70 | £64.50 |
If you qualify for both components at the enhanced rate, you could receive up to £737.20 per month.
To apply, you usually complete a form called PIP1 and may need to attend a health assessment. Applications can be started online or by calling the DWP.
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
ESA is for people who cannot work due to illness or disability. There are two groups: Work-Related Activity and Support Group. The Support Group offers higher payments and does not require you to look for work.
If you’re in the Support Group, you may get up to £392.55 per month. You can claim PIP at the same time, and in some cases, also Universal Credit.
You’ll need to provide medical evidence and may be asked to attend a Work Capability Assessment. Claims can be made online or through Jobcentre Plus.
Combined Monthly Support Potential
Here is what you could receive each month if you qualify for all three benefits:
| Benefit | Max Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Universal Credit | £578.82 |
| Personal Independence Payment | £737.20 |
| Employment and Support Allowance | £392.55 |
| Total | £1,708.57 |
This figure is the maximum and will vary depending on individual circumstances such as income, living arrangements, and health assessments.
How to Apply
To apply for these benefits:
- Gather necessary documents like ID, proof of income, and medical records
- Apply for Universal Credit online at GOV.UK
- Start a PIP claim by phone or post and complete a PIP1 form
- Apply for ESA through Jobcentre Plus or online
- Be prepared to attend assessments if required
If you’re unsure which benefits you can claim, use a free benefits calculator or visit Citizens Advice for help.
Don’t Miss Out
Many people assume they won’t qualify or find the process too complicated, but these benefits are designed to help those in need. Whether you’re out of work, have a disability, or living on a low income, it’s worth checking your eligibility.
Even if you don’t qualify for the full £1,708, receiving just one or two of these payments can still make a big difference to your monthly finances.
FAQs
How much can I get from all three benefits?
Up to £1,708.57 monthly if you qualify for each one.
Is PIP based on income or savings?
No, PIP is not means-tested and doesn’t consider income.
Can I receive ESA and Universal Credit together?
In some cases, yes, depending on your ESA type.
What documents do I need to apply?
You’ll need ID, medical records, and proof of income.
Where do I apply for Universal Credit?
Visit the official Universal Credit page on GOV.UK.
