Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit

Workers suffering a loss of income due to being ill or who are disabled because of an accident or disease (incurred at work or on an approved employment training scheme or course) may also be able to make a claim to the government for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB).

IIDB is a no-fault, tax free benefit which is not means tested and does not depend on National Insurance contributions. The level of benefit depends on the extent of the disablement. Total loss of sight or hearing or the loss of both hands would count as 100% disability and attract the maximum benefits of £174.80 per week (2018-19 rate). Normally someone would have to be assessed as 14% disabled or more to get the benefit.

There may be other benefits or tax credits that someone in employment could claim in the event that their income is affected by sickness absence.