Up to £1708 Monthly: With the rising cost of living stretching household budgets across the UK, many eligible individuals may not be aware that they could be entitled to receive up to £1,708 per month in combined support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This financial assistance comes from a mix of three main benefits: Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). If you are struggling financially due to health issues, unemployment, or low income, understanding how these benefits work together could provide substantial relief.
While this combined amount isn’t guaranteed for everyone, many eligible individuals are missing out on thousands of pounds each year simply because they haven’t checked if they qualify. Here’s a breakdown of each benefit, who is eligible, and how to apply.
Universal Credit – Support for Low-Income Households
Universal Credit is a monthly payment designed to help individuals or families who are unemployed or working with low income. The amount you receive depends on factors like your age, living circumstances, income, and whether you have children or a disability. As of July 2025, the standard allowance ranges from £311.68 to £578.82 per month, with additional support available for children, rent, and health-related conditions.
To qualify for Universal Credit, you must be over 18, under the State Pension age, and have savings below £16,000. Applications are made online via the government’s Universal Credit portal, with payments typically paid directly into your bank account.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Support for Individuals with Long-Term Health Conditions
PIP is a non-means-tested benefit available to individuals aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term physical or mental health condition that affects their daily life or mobility.
The payment consists of two components: daily living and mobility, each offering standard and enhanced rates. As of July 2025, the maximum PIP payment is £737.20 per month if you qualify for both components at the enhanced rate.
To apply for PIP, you must undergo a health assessment, which can be initiated by contacting the DWP or completing a PIP1 form either online or by post.
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) – Income for Those Unable to Work
ESA offers financial support to individuals who are too ill or disabled to work. Depending on your eligibility and the assessment group you belong to, you could receive up to £392.55 per month in the Support Group. Those receiving ESA may also be able to claim PIP and, in some cases, Universal Credit, depending on their circumstances.
To claim ESA, you must provide medical evidence and may need to attend a Work Capability Assessment. Applications can be made through Jobcentre Plus or online via GOV.UK.
Total Monthly Benefit Potential
When combined, these three benefits can provide eligible individuals with up to £1,708 per month:
| Benefit | Maximum Monthly Amount (July 2025) |
|---|---|
| Universal Credit | £578.82 |
| Personal Independence Payment | £737.20 |
| Employment and Support Allowance | £392.55 |
| Total | £1,708.57 |
Keep in mind that actual payments will vary depending on individual assessments, household composition, income, and housing status.
How to Apply and Maximise Your Entitlements
To apply for these benefits, you’ll need to provide accurate documentation and may need to undergo health assessments. It’s essential to have medical records, employment history, and identification documents ready. If you are unsure about what you could claim, Citizens Advice and local welfare support teams can assist you with the process and even help you fill out forms.
Some people may be automatically moved to Universal Credit from legacy benefits, while others may benefit from a benefits check-up using online calculators to determine what they could be missing out on.
Don’t Miss Out on Support
Many people mistakenly assume they won’t qualify or that the process is too complicated. However, these three DWP benefits are designed to help those who need it most. Whether you’re dealing with a health condition, reduced work hours, or unemployment, checking your eligibility could unlock hundreds or even thousands of pounds in support each month.
