10 Key Things You Need to Know About the Universal Credit Capability for Work Questionnaire
If you’re claiming Universal Credit and have a health condition or disability that affects your ability to work, you may be asked to complete a Capability for Work Questionnaire (CWQ). The CWQ is used to assess your capability for work and decide whether you qualify for the Limited Capability for Work (LCW) element of Universal Credit.
Here are 10 key things you need to know about the CWQ:
1. Who Needs to Complete the CWQ?
If you’re claiming UC and you have a health condition or disability that limits your ability to work, you may be asked to complete the CWQ. You’ll also be asked to complete a Work Capability Assessment (WCA) to determine whether you’re eligible for the LCW element.
2. What is the CWQ?
The CWQ is a 25-page questionnaire that asks about your health conditions and how they affect your ability to work. The questions are grouped into sections, including physical health, mental health, medication and treatment, daily living activities, and mobility.
3. How to Complete the CWQ
You can complete the CWQ online or on paper. It’s important to answer all the questions truthfully and in as much detail as possible, so the decision-maker can get a clear idea of how your health conditions affect your ability to work.
4. What Happens After You Submit the CWQ?
After you submit the CWQ, a decision-maker will review your answers and other supporting evidence, such as medical reports. They’ll then decide whether you qualify for the LCW element of Universal Credit.
5. What is the LCW Element?
The LCW element is an extra payment on top of your standard Universal Credit award. It’s designed to help people with health conditions or disabilities who are unable to work or have limited capability for work.
6. What if Your Claim for the LCW Element is Rejected?
If your claim for the LCW element is rejected, you have the right to ask for a mandatory reconsideration. This means a different decision-maker will review your case. If your claim is still rejected, you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
7. How Long Does the CWQ Process Take?
The CWQ process can take several weeks or even months, depending on how quickly you submit your form and how long it takes for decision-makers to review your case.
8. What Support is Available?
If you need help completing the CWQ, you can contact Citizens Advice or a disability advice service for support. You can also ask your GP or other healthcare professional for a letter supporting your claim.
9. How to Prepare for the CWQ?
Before completing the CWQ, it’s a good idea to gather any supporting evidence you have, such as medical reports, letters from healthcare professionals, or a list of medications. This will help you answer the questions more accurately.
10. What Next?
If you’re awarded the LCW element, your claim will be reviewed regularly to see if there have been any changes in your circumstances. If you’re deemed no longer eligible for the LCW element, your payments will stop.
In conclusion, the CWQ is an essential part of the UC application process for people with health conditions or disabilities that limit their ability to work. It’s important to answer the questions truthfully and in as much detail as possible to give decision-makers a clear picture of your circumstances. If you need support, there are many services available to help you with the process.
