Financial Support & Benefits

If you suffered an injury, illness or death caused by service on or after 6 April 2005, you may be entitled to a lump sum and/or a Guaranteed Income Payment (GIP). Claims are usually made within seven years of the date you first knew of the injury (with limited exceptions).

If injury or illness was caused by service before 6 April 2005, the War Pension Scheme may apply. It can provide weekly payments and add-ons such as mobility or clothing allowances. There is generally no time limit to claim.

Some seriously injured veterans awarded AFCS Guaranteed Income Payment at certain levels may receive AFIP instead of claiming PIP, simplifying disability support.

If you have a long-term condition or disability (including many service injuries and mental health conditions), PIP can help with extra living or mobility costs — separate from AFCS/War Pension.

Veterans can claim mainstream benefits. Compensation and some awards can be treated differently for means tests — declare veteran status and awards accurately so you are not underpaid or overpaid.

Veterans on certain disability benefits may qualify for council tax reduction. Some severely disabled veterans may be eligible for stronger reliefs depending on local scheme rules.

War Pension / related schemes can include extra amounts if you need regular care because of service injury. These interact carefully with social care charging.

Eligible veterans can get a Veterans Railcard for one-third off most rail fares for themselves and companions (scheme rules apply).

If mobility is severely limited — including from service injury — you may qualify for a Blue Badge via your local authority.

Depending on when you served, you may have AFPS 75, 05 or 15 benefits. Early departure payments, preserved pensions and commutation rules differ by scheme.