Legal Guidance from Harris Fowler Solicitors
What is the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS)?
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) is a UK government compensation scheme that provides tax-free financial awards to serving personnel, veterans, and reservists who have suffered an injury, illness, or death caused by military service on or after 6 April 2005.
The scheme is administered by Veterans UK and operates on a no-fault basis, meaning you do not need to prove negligence to make a successful claim.
Who can claim under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme?
You may be eligible to make an AFCS claim if you are:
• A current or former member of the UK Armed Forces
• A reservist, including during training or mobilisation
• A member of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment
Your injury or illness must have been caused by or made worse by service.
What injuries and illnesses are covered by the AFCS?
The AFCS covers a wide range of service-related physical and mental health conditions, including:
• Orthopaedic injuries (fractures, joint damage, amputations)
• Hearing loss and tinnitus
• Mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression
• Injuries sustained during training exercises or deployment
• Illnesses caused by long-term exposure or service conditions
Each condition is assessed using an official AFCS tariff system.
Do I need to prove negligence to make an AFCS claim?
No. The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme is a no-fault compensation scheme. This means you only need to show that your injury or illness was linked to your military service, not that the Ministry of Defence or another party was at fault.
Is there a time limit for making an AFCS claim?
Yes. In most cases, an AFCS claim must be submitted within seven years of:
• The date of the injury, or
• The date you were first diagnosed with a service-related condition
There are exceptions for certain late-onset conditions, such as hearing loss or some mental health conditions.
How much compensation can I receive under the AFCS?
Compensation depends on the severity and long-term impact of your injury or illness. Awards may include:
AFCS Lump Sum Payments
A tax-free lump sum for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity, based on the tariff level of your condition
Guaranteed Income Payment (GIP)
For the most serious injuries, you may also receive a Guaranteed Income Payment (GIP) – a monthly, index-linked, tax-free payment designed to compensate for loss of future earnings and ongoing care needs.
What is a Guaranteed Income Payment (GIP)?
A Guaranteed Income Payment is a regular monthly payment awarded under the AFCS for severe service-related injuries or illnesses. It is usually paid until State Pension age and is reviewed annually to reflect inflation.
Can I claim AFCS compensation and still make a personal injury claim?
In some cases, yes. An AFCS claim does not automatically prevent you from bringing a civil personal injury claim where negligence may be involved. However, you cannot receive double compensation for the same injury, and any overlap will be taken into account.
Legal advice is strongly recommended before pursuing both routes.
What evidence is needed for an AFCS claim?
Supporting evidence is crucial and may include:
• Medical records and diagnoses
• Service and personnel records
• Incident reports or witness statements
• Specialist medical opinions
Properly presenting evidence can significantly affect the outcome and level of compensation awarded.
What happens if my AFCS claim is rejected or undervalued?
If you disagree with a decision, you can:
• Request a reconsideration by Veterans UK, or
• Lodge an appeal to an independent tribunal
Strict deadlines apply, and legal representation can be vital at this stage.
Do I need a solicitor for an Armed Forces Compensation Scheme claim?
You are not required to use a solicitor, but many claimants choose to do so, particularly where:
• Injuries are complex or multiple
• Mental health conditions are involved
• A Guaranteed Income Payment is disputed
• An appeal or review is needed
At Harris Fowler Solicitors, we regularly assist clients with AFCS claims, reviews, and appeals.
How can Harris Fowler Solicitors help with AFCS claims?
Our experienced team can:
• Assess eligibility for an AFCS claim
• Prepare and submit claims to Veterans UK
• Ensure compensation is correctly valued
• Represent clients in reconsiderations and appeals
We offer a free initial consultation, with no obligation.
If you need advice on the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, speak to our specialist team today.
📞 Call us 24/7 on 0800 213 214
