The MOD recently released figures on the take-up of the compensation scheme for veterans who served under, and were impacted by, the ban on LGBT personnel in HM Armed Forces from 1967 to 2000. This is a timely reminder that applications close at 11.59pm on 12 December 2026.
There are two categories under which compensation can be payable under the LGBT Financian Recognition Scheme:
Dismissed or discharged payment: £50,000 for eligible veterans removed because of the ban.
Impact payment: up to £20,000 for other qualifying harms, including investigations, harassment or disciplinary action.
Eligible applicants can receive both payments, totalling up to £70,000.
As at 28 September, there had been 1,780 individual applicants, 2,309 decisions on payment cases and £59.305 million paid. Individuals can have cases under both payment categories, so the decisions figure is not a count of people.
The scheme covers those affected while serving between 27 July 1967 and 12 January 2000. Applicants do not need to obtain their service records before applying. No-one should put off applying because they lack old paperwork.
Ministers have already said there are no current plans to extend the deadline. Applications received in time will continue to be processed afterwards.
Key details and benefits
Deadline: Applications close on 12 December 2026 at 11:59 PM.
Tax and Benefits: We understand that payments are completely exempt from income tax and feature an indefinite capital disregard for means-tested benefits: Tax exemption regulations
Restorative Measures: In addition to financial redress, eligible veterans can apply for non-financial measures such as rank restoration, replacement discharge papers, and service record updates. (See below for restorative measures applicable to veterans affected by "historic law" before the 1967 date.)
Applications must be made online or by using an official LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme paper application form.
Help available
Help with applications is available through Fighting With Pride, the Royal British Legion and the Veterans Welfare Service. An MOD page brings together the guidance, application route and support contacts:
Where a veteran cannot complete the application themselves, an authorised representative can submit it on their behalf. This can include someone holding the appropriate power of attorney or someone nominated in a letter written and signed by the veteran – it need not be a solicitor.
The rules also provide priority processing for applicants aged 80 or over, those who are terminally ill, and those with evidence of severe financial hardship.
Pre-1967 LGBT veterans
Although not eligible for compensation under the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme, veterans affected by "historic law" prior to the 1967 date, and certain others such as next of kin in respect of deceased veterans, can apply for non-financial restorative measures under a different scheme: Pre-1967 LGBT veterans: apply for restorative measures.
BAFF cannot supply legal or financial advice. BAFF members interested in this matter are welcome to get in touch, but for assistance with their applications should refer to the MOD link provided.