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Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is the benefit paid to people between 16 and state retirement age (currently 66) to help with the extra costs of living with a disability or long-term health condition.
This page last updated in May 2026.
NEW: Changes to PIP awards and reviews from June 2026
The Government is introducing new legislation allowing some fixed-term PIP awards to be extended without claimants automatically going through a review process.
What is changing?
From June 2026, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will have powers to extend some existing fixed-term PIP awards.
The change is intended to help manage review backlogs and administration pressures.
Existing payments and award rates will not automatically change.
The new rules allow awards to be extended — not shortened.
What does this mean for claimants?
Some people approaching a scheduled PIP review could find that:
✓ their award continues for longer
✓ they do not immediately need to complete a review process
✓ payments continue while their case remains active
People should still report any relevant change in circumstances to the DWP.
Proposed changes from November 2026
Click here to go down to information about current PIP arrangements
April 2025: The government is proposing changes to PIP, to come into effect in November 2026. The DWP says it wants to be “supporting those with the highest needs through changes to PIP entitlement rules”.
There are two parts to PIP – mobility and daily living. The proposed changes affect the daily living component. Rules for mobility are unchanged.
4-point test
Currently, you need to score at least eight points in total across all the activities of daily living in order to qualify for the standard rate of PIP daily living component.
Under the new rules, you would need to score four points for at least one of the activities. In other words, if you score three or less for every activity, you will not qualify. This will obviously exclude many people who are currently eligible.
It is also proposed that young disabled people who currently switch to receiving PIP at the age of 16 should in future do so at 18. Prior to this, the benefit they receive is Disability Living Allowance.
PIP is the replacement for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for all new claimants of working age. Unlike DLA, there are no conditions which automatically qualify you to receive the benefit.
PIP is based on assessment of how your condition affects your daily living and mobility.
Most people – even those who previously had a lifetime award of DLA – are regularly reassessed for PIP. However, the interval is variable, depending on whether your condition is likely to change.
PIP weekly rates (April 2026)
Please note: These rates apply from April 2026.
Click the links below for more information.
What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?
If you disagree with the decision
What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?
A benefit that is paid whether or not you are in employment, if you need help looking after yourself. It is paid every four weeks, and is not taxable.
There are two parts to PIP:
• daily living component
and
• mobility component
Each of these has two different rates; standard and enhanced.
When can you claim Personal Independence Payment?
If you have needed help for 3 months because of a severe physical or mental illness or disability, and you are likely to need it for at least 9 months, you can claim PIP.
You must be aged between 16 and state retirement age.
There are special rules for people with a terminal illness, who are not expected to live more than 6 months.
Notes
You may get the Daily Living Component if you need help with activities such as:
• preparing or eating food
• washing and bathing
• dressing and undressing
• communicating
• managing your medicines or treatments
• making decisions about money
You may get the Mobility Component if you need help going out or moving around.
You will be awarded points depending on the amount of difficulty you have doing various different activities in daily living and/or mobility. Between 8 and 11 points, you will receive Standard rate PIP, with 12 points or more, you will be eligible for the Enhanced rate.
How much is it?
Weekly amounts from April 2026:
Daily Living Component
Enhanced rate – £114.60
Standard rate – £76.70
Mobility Component
Enhanced rate – £80
How to claim
Initial claims should be made by phone.
These are the numbers: 0800 121 4433 or textphone 0800 121 4493.
For people who have difficulty communicating by phone, paper claim forms can be used.
This is the address to write to, in order to request a form:
Personal Independence Payment New Claims
Post Handling Site B
Wolverhampton
WV99 1AH
After initial screening for eligibility, you will be sent a claim form to complete and return, detailing how your conditions affects your daily living and mobility, along with any evidence to support your claim.
You can see sample form and an information booklet on the DWP website, here.
You will most likely be asked to attend a meeting with an independent assessor, before you are awarded any PIP.
About the PIP Assessment
The assessment criteria state that you should be judged as to whether you can complete the various tasks:
• safely
• to an acceptable standard
• repeatedly
• in a reasonable time period
For the mobility component, the assessment is based on the ability to travel a distance of 20 metres, not 50 metres, as is the case for DLA.
PIP is awarded for a fixed period, rather than indefinitely, and you will be reassessed at the end of that time, to see whether your needs have changed.
If you disagree with the Benefit decision
If you are assessed as not eligible for PIP, you will be notified in writing, and any payments you are currently receiving, will be stopped.
You have a right to contest the decision. The first step is to ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration, which you need to do within one month.
If this is unsuccessful, you can appeal: you need to do this within one month of the Mandatory Reconsideration. Make sure you include explanations of why you disagree with the original decision, and any supporting evidence.
Your appeal should be heard by an independent tribunal, and judging by experience with other benefit appeals, you are much more likely to succeed if you have proper representation. Your local Citizens Advice Bureau should be able to advise you on this.
There is useful information about preparing for a PIP appeal, prepared by the legal charity, Advice Now, which you can download here.
Article ends – click to return to top or check out related resources below
Further reading and resources
What happens to pension age PIP claimants under the new proposals?
111 Replies to “Personal Independence Payment (PIP)”
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Please can I ask why my PIp has stopped from April and May and dont know about June
Hello
I’m afraid we can’t help you with that – Independent Living is an information website, we don’t have anything to do with benefits or the DWP. I suggest you get in touch with them directly to find out.
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
Hi it’s a customer of pip I would like to know if the jobcentre can take some photocopies for you, your company is marvellous and I look forward for my payment every monthly payment 😊.
My Son filled in a form and sent it back to D.W.P last January but he has heard nothing at all from them, is there a reason?
Hello Vivienne
It takes an average of 20 weeks for the DWP to make a decision – sometimes it is longer. As your son has heard nothing, I would suggest getting in touch with them to ask for an update on progress. The PIP enquiry line is 0800 121 4433.
Best wishes,
Frances
Thankyou for your reply, my Son filled in the first part where you have to rip off the first page, will he have to fill in any more forms or was that it, because since then he has been diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation, will this make any difference? Thankyou for your time.
Im unable to walk i have spinal injuries then i was thrown to the floor by an attacker i cant walk 20 steps without pain in my back and stomach.You stopped my money ive missed 2 months prescriptions cant go to medical appointments without help ive got no one.Im done so thanks for that
Hello Janine
I’m sorry to hear of your situation. You need to get in touch with the DWP about your benefit. We are an information website, and unfortunately there is nothing we can do to help you. It is definitely worth appealing the decision if your PIP is stopped. There is information to help you on the Turn2Us website: https://pip.turn2us.org.uk/ (external link will open in a new browser tab or window).
Best wishes,
Frances
Can someone please help. I have just been awarded PIP. I got the standard rate for both daily living and mobility. In the decision letter it states how many points you got for each problem and some are clearly wrong! I had a phone assessment with a some what pushy health care worker (not that that bothered me) but some of the assessments questions in the letter are not what I told her at all. I don’t know what to do? Do I write to them and dispute it ? I just want to point it out to them, I’m not necessarily disputing my award just the contents of the letter.
Hi, I’ve just been awarded Enhanced care and standard mobility components of PIP, but at 2022/2023 rates. Just wondering why I’ve not been awarded the increased 2023/2024 rates. I live in Northern Ireland.
Hello Doreen
I am not aware of any reason why you should be paid at a lower rate. PIP isn’t means tested, so you should get weekly amounts of £101.75 for the enhanced daily living element and £26.90 for the standard mobility component (paid every four weeks).
Perhaps an error was made in the letter notifying you? If you find that you aren’t actually being paid these amounts, get in touch with them straight away to get it sorted out.
Best wishes, Frances
Hi If I’m receiving pip is it too late to reassess my pip as iv got worse but I’m 65 now 66 in October. Thank you.
Hello Angela
Yes, you can still ask for your PIP Award to be reassessed as your condition has deteriorated.
Best wishes, Frances
Can you send me an email stating that I get pip, please?
Hello Jon
We don’t have anything to do with the benefits system, I’m afraid. You would need to get that information from the DWP.
Best wishes,
Frances
Friends of mine have just returned from living in an EU country Bulgaria. How long does she have to wait before she can claim PIP. I know the consensus is you have to be here 2 out of last 3 years except in certain circumstances were there are agreements. Can you please advise what those exceptions are.
Hello Sharon
You are correct that the general rule is that you need to have lived in Britain for at least two out of the past three years, and you need to be living in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland when you apply.
Unfortunately, the government doesn’t appear to give any more details beyond saying that if you return from an EU country, you may be able to get it sooner. I recommend that your friend applies as soon as possible: it appears to be the best way of finding out!
Best wishes, Frances
Can I join to get up dates?
Hi Mark,
You can sign up for the weekly newsletter here: https://www.independentliving.co.uk/subscribe-to-our-free-news-roundup/
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything else you want to ask.
Best wishes,
Liane
Hello, I have a friend who has been off work for quite a while due to a tear in his ACL on his knee. The family have a hereditary conditions where the knees dislocate. My friend has been off work for 8 months now due to needing a couple of operations and with the pain in his knee. Would this qualify him to make a claim for PIP?
Hi Jonny
Anyone whose mobility or ability to carry out daily living tasks are affected by a disability or long-term condition can apply for PIP. There are no specific conditions that qualify you for the benefit.
Best wishes, Frances
Hi I have recently diagnosed with diaphragmatic hernia. The symptoms include acid reflux, abdo pain, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
Hi, I have a few chronic conditions and one in particular is mainly what my benefit was awarded for. This illness is one that I can have good periods and I can have bad periods and also can go into remission but can also relapse.
It is a childhood condition and I’m an adult now so have had remission periods multiple times before I end up relapsing and the duration each time varies however have never been longer than 2 years without sickness before it come back.
What happens should my health go into remission again knowing it can return in full force at any time in regards to my PIP benefit? I wouldn’t want to end my benefit based on the fact I’m in remission because it could turn out that 2 weeks or so later my illness decides to relapse I am now left worse off as I don’t have a financial safety net (this has happened before except I didn’t have benefits to worry about stopping as I do now).
How do I navigate benefits in a situation like mine?
Hi I have rheumatoid arthritis . I have at least 17joints affected in my hands , it’s in both knees , ankles and feet . I struggle with day to day tasks and sometimes avoid goin out because it’s too painful . Do you think I would qualify for pip ?
Hello Kathryn
Chronic pain that has an impact on your mobility and/or ability to carry out daily living tasks would make you eligible for PIP. It doesn’t depend on having any particular condition. Make sure that you include details of all the ways you are affected when you complete the application.
Best wishes,
Frances
I have a severe obesity issue which affects my day to day life, mobility, confidence, mood and ability to work. I have pain all over my body especially, feet, knees, back, neck and arms. This is been going on for years ( about 15years) but last 8 years, its worse. Restricted with social life too because of it. I stopped working all together because of mobility and stress associated with it.
If I plan to go somewhere, I am so slow in preparing and moving. Can only do few tasks a day. Do you think severe obesity (BMI of near 50) is considered a disability with PIP nowadays because it is not for receiving NHS sick pay. Thank you
Hello Rose
PIP is not awarded for particular conditions, it is awarded because a condition causes difficulty with mobility or daily living activities. So you can go ahead and apply for it.
Are you getting support to help you try and reduce your weight?
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi I was told my claim was being looked at for the mental health law change. I had a review in 2021 and moved to enhanced living and daily standard mobility. But they haven’t backdated to the original claim date. As I just missed out on enhanced and mobility back in 2019. When will I hear back about this?
Hello Daniel
I’m afraid they do not backdate payments to the original claim date. You get paid the new amount from the review decision date.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi
Just wonder if i would be entitled to PIP ive just been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and just been granted biologic treatment i do still work but i have lost a good few jobs due to the struggles and days in bed with pain?
Thankyou
Hello Danny
It doesn’t matter what condition you have, if it affects your ability to move about or do normal daily activities, you can apply for PIP.
Best wishes, Frances
Thankyou
Hi
I’m diagnosed with hypertriglyceridemia
Do I can clime PIP ?
hi my partner suffers from learning difficulties,adhd,ocd,we have made the initial claim and ive completed the questioner months ago does anybody know roughly how long it takes for an assessment or a decision and also he claims universal credit for mental health and still not had is assessment and still has to send sick notes when will he be assessed
Hi
I would telephone the DWP to ask if they have received the application form. If they have ask for an estimate time scale. Do not pour out the full story on the telephone call though. It is important to just ask key questions.
I cannot advise on Universal credit.
Julie
Hello everyone am I entitled to pip? I have asthma and I’m gasping for air all day I can’t carry out simple day to day activities I can’t walk to long I avoid going out cos little bit of stuufs like cold air triggers me to cough intensify and lead to moderate asthma attacs
Hello Koysur
If you have a long-term condition that has an impact on your mobility or ability to carry out daily living activities, then yes, you can apply for PIP.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi. I’ve applied 2 times and I didn’t get it. I have epilepsy I need someone all the time supervise me. Also I have backs osteoarthritis. A lot pain sometimes when I wake up I cry with pain. I have depression and anxiety. First time they give me 4points second time 2points in 2017. Should I try again? And if I get witch mobility? I’m only 35 years old. Thanks
Hello Maria
I’m sorry to hear of your situation – it must be very hard for you. You should apply for PIP, and make sure that your application is well prepared. your local Citizens Advice should be able to help.
Best wishes,
Frances
Morning everyone. I already receive P I P of £23 per week. I did Original get 0 points but ask for them to look again. All my medical condition were ignored but received points for anxiety in unknown surroundings? However my Doctor has diagnoses Gout in my wrist hands and fingers along with my Osteoarthritis I have had for years. Would I be able to contact P I P and tell them of my medical condition? I have only been receiving P I P since March this year.
Hello Anne
You can always contact the DWP and let them know that your diagnosed conditions have changed – but be aware that you will then have to go through the assessment process again. If you decide to do this, make sure that you are well prepared, with supporting documentation and information about all the different ways that your conditions affect your ability to manage your life on a day-to-day basis.
Best wishes,
Frances
I have ankolosing spondylitis and some days it’s really bad and I can’t move, could anyone tell me if it’s worth applying for pip. Thank you
Hello
Yes – if you have any condition that affects your mobility or ability to carry out daily living activities, you can apply for PIP. There is an extra challenge when you have a fluctuating condition – it is important to make it clear the full extent to which you are affected.
It might be a good idea to get some professional support – your local citizens advice should be able to help.
Best wishes, Frances
My wife has recently been diagnosed with progressive back pain & deteriorating mobility. Known multilevel spinal stenosis & degenerative scoliosis. She can’t walk without pain & has also got copd. Are we allowed to claim as she will have to retire next week?
Hello David
If your wife is under 65, and her mobility and/or ability to carry out daily living activities are affected by her condition, she can apply for PIP. Over the age of 65, the equivalent benefit is Attendance Allowance, which doesn’t bring entitlement to join the Motability scheme.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi my name is Lisa I have just been diagnosed with liver disease and I was wondering if I can claim pip.
Thank you
Hello Lisa
You can claim PIP if your condition has an impact on your mobility or your ability to carry out daily living tasks. You need to phone the DWP to make a claim – 0800 917 2222.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi can someone advise me please when you receive the back payment of pip does this include your first monthly payment I received this on Friday the 2nd July and then was advised ny pay day will be every 4 weeks on a Monday so is this 4 weeks from now I’m really confused.
Hello Sarah
PIP is paid in arrears, which means that every payday, you will receive a payment for the previous four weeks.
Best wishes,
Frances
Thankyou for your reply the thing I’m confused about is I uaven not been given an actual pay date but just the day which will be a Monday my back pay was from the 28/10/2020 untill the 27/06/2021 and I received this on the 2/07/2021 will my first payment be included in the back dated money and will it be 4 weeks from then I get paid .
Thanks
If you have been paid up until 27th of June, then your next payment will be four weeks later. As you are scheduled to be paid on a Monday, that should arrive on 26th July.
Best wishes,
Frances
I was just wondering if my partner would be able to get pip he had a heart attack 7 years ago, he has a metal plate and pins in his left shoulder and right ankle, he has type 2 diabetes,asthma and a hernia. If he can’t what else would he be able to claim thankyou in advance
Hello Shirley
Anyone who has a disability or long-term condition that impacts on their mobility or ability to carry out tasks of daily living can apply for PIP. Your partner should get in touch by phone – 0800 121 4433 – and ask for an application form.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hello 28 year old with primary adernal insufficiency leaving me with many problems in my daily life and has even made me redeployed to a desk would I be able to apply
Hello Charlotte
Anybody who has a disability or long-term condition that impacts on their daily living or mobility can apply for PIP. You need to phone in the first instance – 0800 121 4433.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi my name is Neil Kendall, I’m after a little bit of advice.
My wife at the moment is claiming PIP with myself down as a carer for helping her around her daily activities. I’m now longer with her and haven’t been with her for 16 months, what I want to know is that am I still on her file as her carer as I’m no longer with her as I’ve heard that I could be in trouble with the relative bodies for not disclosing her change of circumstance.
If this is the case I would like my name removed from her case file and application as I feel she doesn’t need help she’s fine
Hello
It is up to the person claiming PIP to notify the DWP of any change in circumstances. If you are claiming Carer’s Allowance, then you would need to let them know that you are no longer providing care.
Best wishes,
Frances
I am a chronic pain sufferer and although I work, in one way my work keeps me going but in another adds to the pain. My job does require being very hands on and being on my feet most shifts. This in return adds to the constant pain I suffer down my left side. I also had a fall before Christmas which has left me with pain on my right side, which I get spasms with certain movements. Even getting out of bed brings these on. Would I possibly qualify for PIP if I was to apply?
Hello Kathryn
Chronic pain that has an impact on your mobility and/or ability to carry out daily living tasks would make you eligible for PIP. Make sure that you include details of all the ways you are affected when you complete the application.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi my dad had lung cancer surgery In January witch has left him always sleeping his got copd gastric ulcer diabetes blood pressure and more we applied for pip in February and they still have not made a decision I want to know will he get it
Hello Rosemary
Unfortunately, nobody except DWP can answer that question, but it certainly sounds as though he should.
It is quite a long time that he has been waiting for a decision – I would get in touch and ask for an update on the situation.
Best wishes,
Frances
My son has a vision of 6/12, nystagmus can he get pip as this is really effecting his daily living.
If your son’s visual impairment is affecting his daily living and/or his mobility, then yes he can apply for PIP.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hello. I am in the process of applying for PIP, I have depression, OCD, GAD and stage 2 heart failure.
My OCD has meant l have taken ages to fill in the form. I am posting it today and the deadline is June 12.
I will be 65 on June 20. If l am turned down, will l be able to appeal if, by that time, I am over 65?
Regards,
Jan P
Hello Jan
State pension age is gradually going up, and I believe yours is actually June 2022. You can check it on the Government website https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-age (external link will open in a new browser tab or window)
So you will have plenty of time to appeal if you are not successful initially. I hope that you are.
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
I got 0 points in my pip assessment, the form that I got after asking for a mandatory reconsideration had spelling errors and misgendered pronouns (I’m a 23 year old cis male). I have suffered with depression and a dissociative anxiety disorder for years, and I was recently told by a psychiatrist that I have bpd. It has been 9 weeks since I asked for a mandatory reconsideration, and I haven’t heard anything. Is there any chance that I will get help? Or will I just have to scrape by living on plain rice?
Hello Jake
The DWP doesn’t specify a time limit for them to deal with your mandatory reconsideration, unfortunately – though they do say about 14 days in straightforward cases where they don’t need any further information. Nine weeks is a long time to be waiting, so I suggest you get in touch to ask for an update on the situation.
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
I am profoundly deaf and wear hearing aid cannot manage without it.
Now face coverings are in place I’m finding it very difficult out and about and also to find work.
Can I get any help?
I sympathise – it must be extremely difficult to manage in your situation.
It is possible to apply for PIP if you need help with communication because of your deafness.
There is helpful information on the RNID website: https://rnid.org.uk/information-and-support/benefits/personal-independence-payment-pip/ (external link will open in a new browser tab or window)
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi. My partner had his telephone hearing with the supreme tribunal on the 09/12/2020, he received the decision on the post on the 14/12/2020 awarding him with the standard rate for both daily living and mobility to be backdated till 23/10/2019. We were told that normally it takes 4 to 6 weeks to process back payments, but so far he hasn’t received any letter or payment. Citizens advice who helped us with the appeal, told us that they know of cases that had their hearing after his and they have received their back payment already. Is this normal? How much longer do you think we’ll have to wait? Is there a specific number or email he can contact? Thank you
Hello Peta
That does seem a long time to be waiting – I would definitely get in touch and ask what’s going on. There isn’t a way to contact the DWP by email, but the phone number for an existing award is freephone: 0800 121 4433.
Best wishes,
Frances
I was diagnosed over 20years ago with autoimmune liver hepatitis c because of the medication I take I have now been diagnosed with steroid induced diabetes, anemia, liver serosis and four years ago with rhumatiod arthritis over the last 2/3 years my liver serosis anand arthritis have deteriorated especially my arthritis to the point I can walk to great a distance or lift heavy weights such as shopping bags kettle I can only put enough water in for 1cup and washing and drying my hair is agonizing so I need my pip to be reviewed how do I do this please help
Hello Gail
You need to get in touch with the DWP in writing, reporting a change in circumstances and asking them to review your award. The DWP office address to write to should be on the paperwork you have about your PIP. Send your letter as Tracked post, so you have proof of delivery.
You will receive a new PIP2 form, not an AR1, and you will need to provide evidence not only of the changes in your condition, but also in support of your current award. The new Decision, whatever it is, will supersede your existing award.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi, I was diagnosed with testicular cancer and as part of the treatment I’ve had radiotherapy which I think has effected my bowels, am I able to claim PIP?
Hello James
If you have difficulties with any daily living tasks or mobility, then you can claim PIP.
Best wishes,
Frances
OK, currently I’m having to take laxatives regularly, does this count as a “difficultly with daily living”,
No you won’t receive any pip
Hi am I entitled to pip for severe asthma? Even though I’m claiming jsa? Thanks
Hello Kenny
You can apply for PIP if your severe asthma affects your mobility and/or ability to carry out daily living activities. Details about applying and how your claim will be assessed can be found on this page.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi Frances I am asthmatic I also have something called diverticula disease and also ckd stage 2 would I be able to claim for pip ? Tania
Hello Tania
If your conditions have an impact on your ability to move around and/or complete daily living tasks, then you can apply for PIP. There are details on the page above about how to apply and how claims are assessed.
Best wishes,
Frances
I have just had a PIP telephone assessment after waiting since end of August last year. I too have CFS/ME and I really got the impression that the assessor didn’t want me to explain anything. It was a question and answer type of thing and if I said “because” or “but” she interrupted me and said “that’s all I need to know, thank you”. At one point on the preparing food bit, she asked me if I was given a carrot and potato to peel what would stop me. My reply was that because I get severe anxiety…. and I was interrupted by her saying “we’re talking about vegetables here”. I got the impression that she was uninterested in me explaining why anxiety stops me in my tracks with even physical activities. I await a cop of the assessor’s report!
I really hope you get the right result, Jo. But if you don’t, make sure that you appeal – starting with requesting a mandatory reconsideration. A majority of appeals are successful.
You can also download a really helpful guide to appealing successfully from the legal charity Advice Now: https://www.advicenow.org.uk/guides/how-win-pip-appeal (external link will open in a new browser window)
Good luck and best wishes
Frances
Hello,
I was awarded PIP at the standard rate in August 2020. Since November my condition has deteriorated. Should I contact PIP and advise them of this? I have read forums online and the general consensus seems to be there is a risk that I could lose the PIP I currently receive. I have contacted welfare rights for some advice on available assistance however I would really appreciate some advice from yourself.
Hello Sara
It is always a judgement call, because there is a risk that reassessment might lead to the loss of your current award. If you feel there is a sufficient difference to your mobility and/or ability to carry out daily living tasks because of the deterioration in your condition, and you have medical evidence to support your claim, then you can ask to be reassessed.
It’s not an easy decision to make, I know.
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
Hi sara this happend to my wife and i my wife suffers from ms and had a relapse we were 2 points off the full pip award when we applied we contacted them to inform her condition had got worse they stopped payment and told us we would have to reapply to which we did the assesor scored us a zero to cut a long story short we ended up in a court room which ended with us being awarded pip a long and horrible thing to have to do when ur ill but we felt so strong we took them all the way .good luck which ever path you take
Hi I applied for PIP in September 2020, I have Parkinson’s Disease which is progressing very quickly, had a phone call from a nurse at assessment centre who said she was happy to support my claim, but now PIP tell me no decision has been made and that I should here in 6-8 weeks already waited 21 weeks, getting a bit cheesed off,
I’m not surprised that you’re getting fed up, Fiona – it’s a long time to wait. Unfortunately, you are very much not alone.
I hope you get your award before too much longer. It will be paid from when you applied, so there will be a lump sum at the beginning, but that’s not very helpful in the meantime.
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
Hi I got a text from pip saying they have received my claim form in September still not heard anything from them it’s going on 15 weeks and I can never get through on the helpline number
Hello Evelyn
I am sorry to hear that you have been waiting so long, but not overly surprised – many people are in the same situation.
Unfortunately I don’t know of an alternative to contacting them by phone for an update. There isn’t an email address. So it’s a question of persevering. I would try different times of day, to see whether some are less busy than others.
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
Hello can you fill a form online for pip or do you have to ring them up hope you don’t mind me asking
Hello Sharon
Unfortunately, you do have to start the process by phoning the DWP and asking for a form to be sent to you. You then have to fill it in and return by post. Very last century!
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi, my name is vodi, I was passed to the operation in Birmingham Last year 2019 l was a victim in cancer my condition is not good can do anything when I working I don’t feel well, I have my prof Dr I have everything for medication already spoken with dr they are said you need claim for pip. Thank you.
I put in my pip claim over 4 months ago and still not heard anything. I have phoned twice and they said it is waiting with the assessment team to send me a date but could still be anything from a few weeks to a few months before I hear anything.
What else can I do?
Hello Michaela
That seems a long time to be waiting for an assessment. Though there are longer delays in the process since coronavirus. Unfortunately, except for people with a terminal condition, there isn’t a way to expedite an application. I suggest that you keep phoning and asking for an update every couple of weeks or so, so that your application is at least being checked on regularly, rather than possibly being overlooked.
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
My wife has been given a working diagnosis of M.E/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by her GP. Previously the doctor thought it may be fibromyalgia but the rheumatologist didn’t agree. We are now waiting for a referral to neurology and have been waiting for almost one calendar year. Because of this, and because the symptoms are difficult to prove*, we don’t have any concrete evidence. What would you advise we do to try and succeed at tribunal stage? (Our score was zero at the first assessment (an outrage in itself) and has been upped to 2 points at appeal (completely out of order)).
* Her symptoms are difficult to prove – they include debilitating fatigue leaving her in bed for days at a time, pain in joints and limbs, migraines/sensitivity to light and sound that cause crippling headaches, oversleeping, anxiety and depression, vomiting, acid reflux, diarrhea, muscle weakness, brain fog/forgetfulness. She has previously had suicidal thoughts and has been to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. We have told the assessors that she is unable to prepare food, bathe herself, go on public transport (due to the anxiety), remember simple words or phrases. We explained that she had been stuck in the bath, burnt herself, tripped and fallen, and narrowly avoided a fatal collision with a vehicle (as a pedestrian). The assessors were not interested – in fact, her report said that my wife “looked well” and ruled that her anxiety was not in fact an issue for using public transport.
Sorry for the ramble, but this process is killing us. We first put in for PIP more than a year ago. My wife has wanted to give up on so many occasions. She has been gas-lit by the DWP into thinking that she just isn’t trying hard enough (they used the fact that she could get from the car to the assessment centre against her and that she was able to briefly move her hair out of her eyes as ‘proof’ she could wash her hair – this is discrimination, plain and simple), when it is plain to anybody that if she can’t get out of bed/bathe/travel/prepare food, then she has no chance of getting employment.
So, yes, what evidence can we provide in lieu of a concrete referral?
Yours Sincerely,
A very anxious husband, Jay
Hello Jay
I am so sorry to hear of all that you and your wife are going through – I can well imagine the terrible impact on your lives.
Two suggestions for you. First, to get some professional support. This helps improve your chances of winning at Tribunal. Your local citizens advice bureau should be able to help.
And secondly, download the guide to winning a PIP appeal which has been produced by the legal charity Advice Now. It gives you step-by-step guidance. This is the link: https://www.advicenow.org.uk/guides/how-win-pip-appeal (external link will open in a new browser window)
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
I have waited 4 months for a pip decision still no word no phone call I have heard nothing since I started my claim . What’s my next move
Hello Kevin
You should phone the DWP and ask for an update on your claim. Coronavirus has slowed things down even more than usual, but still – four months is a long time to wait without news.
Best wishes,
Frances
Having been a recipient of PIP for many years now, I’d just like to add a word of warning about something that could be totally unexpected.
It is correct that PIP is awarded for a fixed period, rather than indefinitely. However, do not expect or presume that you will almost get to the end of that fixed period before you are reassessed. For example, if you have been awarded PIP for three years it is highly likely that you will receive a letter about starting the reassessment process after being on PIP for only two years! If you have been awarded PIP for three years, it is highly likely that you will be pushed into the reassessment process after only two years. This can be quite a shock unless you are aware it will probably happen.
There will be another very lengthy Form to complete, and Evidence to find, and Reports to collect from various people, and all of this to do in less than a month. The eligibility criteria could have changed, or the interpretation of the eligibility criteria could have changed, and you might find yourself totally unprepared for this. It can be incredibly stressful, so do phone the DWP and have a reason for asking for an extension to the initial deadline for returning the Form. Initially they will say they don’t do extensions, and you won’t find this possibility written down anywhere, but they will ask you if another fortnight ‘extension’ would be OK. I’ve had as many as three two-week extensions added on to the original deadline for returning the Form. DWP staff granting these ‘extensions’ have been surprisingly kind and considerate.
The whole reassessment process can take months, but once it is complete your PIP can change from that moment. So if they decide to reduce your PIP or cancel it altogether, that’s what will happen, even though you haven’t reached the end of the original fixed period. Ofcourse you can challenge their decision if they reduce or cancel your PIP, but I’m just trying to alert you to the fact that an award of PIP for a fixed period is highly unlikely to last as long as you would expect it to.
Thank you, Cathy, for taking the time to share this warning with other PIP recipients/applicants. Really useful information to have! I’m sure many must be caught out by an unexpectedly early reassessment, and that’s a good tip about asking for an extension.
Best wishes,
Frances
With regard to Alan’s question about getting PIP after the age of 65, Frances is correct in saying that someone can apply for PIP up to the age of 65, and that anyone needing to apply for a disability benefit after reaching that age would only be able to apply for Attendance Allowance (AA). However, if someone is ALREADY receiving PIP when they reach the age of 65 they will continue to receive PIP after that. For example I am now 72, and still receiving PIP, and I can continue to do so unless my condition changes. Then it gets more complicated, and in some situations PIP will stop. There is no automatic transfer to Attendance Allowance after that. A person would have to start from scratch and go through the full application process for Attendance Allowance.
So if you are in your 60s and thinking about applying for a disability benefit, get as much support as you can from someone who knows how the system works, or from an Organisation that provides support with the PIP Application process, and then apply as soon as possible. If you are successful, and you are awarded PIP before you are 65, you could still be receiving it many years later. Miss that deadline and you can only apply for Attendance Allowance, and there is no Mobility Component with Attendance Allowance, and no entitlement to purchase a Vehicle or Wheelchair or Mobility Scooter through the Motability Scheme.
Thanks, Cathy – so important to get PIP if you possibly can (i.e. make sure you apply before you are 65). It seems unfair that Attendance Allowance doesn’t entitle you to buy a vehicle through Motability, but that is the situation.
I hope you continue to qualify for PIP for many years!
Best, Frances
Yes, if pre-65 and with mobility impairment that might qualify one for the mobility components of PIP, one should apply for it rather than delay, necessitating an AA claim. If a mobility award is unlikely it doesn’t matter as the AA and PIP rates are otherwise identical.
One consideration: some aver that AA is a little easier to get than PIP, and it IS a differently-assessed benefit with NO face-to-face assessment as with PIP (something some claimants find stressful and undesirable). If approaching 65, and with no realistic possibility of a mobility award under PIP, it could be better to claim AA at 65 – though that would preclude any future mobility award under PIP were one to develop mobility impairment in future. If in doubt claim PIP. But if you’d prefer a paper-based only award decision (application form/written medical evidence) and are near 65, AA may be better.
I write as a younger person receiving PIP, and as a professional adviser/supporter to hospice patients claiming disability benefits. My personal view is that AA is the easier to get for a claimant of the same level of functional impairment (not necessarily the SAME impairment/s, as the benefits have different award criteria).
Thank you for this, Marcus – it’s great to have your input with the breadth of experience you have. I can see that decisions really need to be taken on an individual basis, and it’s interesting to note that Attendance Allowance might be easier than PIP for some people to claim.
Best wishes,
Frances
Hi I look after a young lady of 30yrs. I fostered her from a baby with learning difficulties. Age around 15 she was awarded Dla the small amount. When she was re assest about 5yrs ago they took it off her not giving her any points As time going on she is struggling even more and I have to still go everyday take her shopping. All appointments docs and hospital She doesn’t cook only microwaves she suffers with asthma and rheumatoid atheists Could she reapply for pip. Thank you a concerned carer.
Hello Christine
Yes, absolutely she should apply again. You should be able to get help from the local Citizens Advice Bureau.
Good luck and best wishes,
Frances
Hi Frances thank you for your reply regarding my young lady. Together we will go to C A and reapply Thanks again Christine
Specifically, if she was receiving DLA low rate of care (the lowest of three), PIP effectively abolished award for the low rate, replacing DLA with the PIP equivalent of middle- and high-rate DLA care (in PIP, the standard and enhanced rates of care). If you think she might qualify for one of those rates, apply. There’s plenty of info on the web about the questions PIP asks of impairment and how the scoring works to qualify for each of the two rates.
Broadly speaking, 40-45% of PIP applicants get an award of something, and it would be fair to say that, overall, it’s a little harder to get an award than under DLA, at least because the low rate of DLA care was abolished, so one’s needs – theoretically – need to be greater to qualify for anything.
Can you please tell me can you still get P.I.P after your 64 and if you do
Is it the same assessment
Kind regards
Alan Beresford
Hello Alan
I have moved your comment to this page, as it is more appropriate, and will help anyone else with the same question.
You can apply for PIP up until your 65th birthday. After that, you need to apply for attendance allowance. You can read more about AA here:
https://www.independentliving.co.uk/advice/attendance-allowance-aa/
I hope this helps. Please don’t hesitate to come back to me if there is anything else you would like to ask.
Best wishes,
Frances