IIDB: mesothelioma gets 100% automatically
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit, usually shortened to IIDB, is a weekly tax-free payment for people whose illness or injury was caused by their work. Mesothelioma is on the list of recognised industrial diseases. The full name on the form is ‘diffuse mesothelioma, prescribed disease D3’.
Two things make IIDB unusually friendly to mesothelioma patients:
- You’re assessed at 100% disablement automatically. Most other diseases require a medical assessment that scores how much your condition limits you. Mesothelioma skips that step.
- It is not means-tested, and it doesn’t depend on National Insurance contributions. It doesn’t matter how much you have in the bank or whether you’re working. It also doesn’t reduce most other benefits (some exceptions exist for Universal Credit and ESA — your benefits adviser will spell those out).
The 100% weekly rate is uprated every April. We don’t print the figure in this guide because rates change and editors have got them wrong before; the current rate is on gov.uk, dated and authoritative.
If you need daily care and attention from another person — preparing meals, helping with washing or dressing, supervising medication — you can also claim Constant Attendance Allowance on top of IIDB. There are four rates, depending on how much help you need. Again, see gov.uk for the current weekly figures.
How to claim:
- Form BI100A for mesothelioma. You can ring the IIDB helpline on 0800 121 8379 to start a claim by phone, which is often easier.
- A medical advisor will usually contact your GP for confirmation. You don’t normally need a face-to-face assessment.
- Decisions are usually quick for mesothelioma, often within 2 to 4 weeks.
Two warnings:
Claim quickly. Payment runs from the date of your claim, not the date of diagnosis, and backdating is limited under DWP rules. Putting the form off costs you money.
A successful civil compensation claim against an employer can reduce or offset later IIDB. This is called the Compensation Recovery Unit (CRU) certificate. Your solicitor will explain how it works in your case. It is rarely a reason not to claim IIDB now; it’s just a number to factor in later.
If you’re refused — which is uncommon for mesothelioma but does happen — you have the right to a Mandatory Reconsideration and then to appeal to a tribunal. Your local Asbestos Support Group or Citizens Advice can help with the form, free of charge.