Client has a change of circumstances before grant

If a client has a change of circumstances before their benefit is granted and the benefit applied for is no longer the most appropriate one for them, they do not have to complete any pre-benefit activity they may have been assigned.

For example:

• the client becomes permanently and severely restricted in their capacity for work because of a health condition, an injury or a disability and they would qualify for Supported Living Payment

MSD should grant the original application for benefit in the first instance, even though the pre-benefit activity hasn't been undertaken, and then decide if it is appropriate to transfer the client to another benefit from the date they became entitled to get it.

Important the client will need to provide any supporting evidence or additional information relating to the new benefit such as a medical certificate for Supported Living Payment.