Am I entitled to Disability Benefits?

Though this is covered a little in my previous post. This was going to be my first post today.

You may be entitled to extra help from the state if you suffer adverseley with your HIV. There are several benefits & entitlements you may be able to receive to help you with day to day living.

You can apply whether you are working or receive state benefits.

You might be entitled to financial help with your day to day living needs. This is covered by a benefit, Disability Living Allowance. It is awarded in three bands - lower, medium & higher.

You might be entitled to financial help with your day to day mobility needs. This is called Disability Mobility Allowance. It is awarded in three bands - lower, medium & higher.

APPLY if you think you might have a claim. The experience I have heard from many. Is that you will probably be rejected on the first claim. APPEAL. Many claims are accepted on appeal.

Disability allowances are not like other benefits you might claim. If you need to also claim or claiming any other benefit i.e. Incapacity Benefit (IB). These disability allowances DO NOT count as extra income when it comes to entitlements. Whereas the savings in your "piggy bank" might affect the amount of Income Support (IS) you might get. Any amount you receive in disability benefits will not be considered as extra income.

The make up of your other benefits might change. You may even get more. As disability elements within for example IB could be added. It may even entitle you to a discount on your council tax.

If you have a successful claim for a Mobility allowance. Depending on the level. You may be entitled or able to apply for the Mobility Scheme, Blue Disabled Parking Badge, exemption on car tax or a Freedom Pass.

Look at the links panel for extra information on the "THT","Disability UK Govt. Website" and "Benefits & Work". You can also ask at your local "Citizens Advice Bureau" or local HIV clinic.