Personal Independence Payment, usually called PIP, is one of the most widely unclaimed benefits in the UK. It is designed to help with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability, and crucially, it is not means-tested. That means it does not matter whether you work, what your income is, or whether you have savings. If you have a condition that affects your daily life or your ability to get around, you may be entitled to it.
What does PIP cover?
PIP has two components. The daily living component is for people who need help with everyday tasks such as preparing food, washing and dressing, managing medications, communicating, and handling social situations. The mobility component is for people who have difficulty walking or getting around. You can receive one or both components, and each has a standard and an enhanced rate depending on how significantly your condition affects you.
Who can claim?
PIP is available to people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a physical or mental health condition or disability that has affected them for at least three months and is expected to continue for at least nine months. The condition does not need to be a diagnosed illness in the conventional sense. Mental health conditions, chronic pain, learning difficulties and fluctuating conditions all count. The assessment looks at how your condition affects your ability to carry out specific activities, not at a diagnosis alone.
How to claim
You start a PIP claim by calling the DWP on 0800 917 2222. They will post you a form called How your disability affects you. This is the most important part of the process. Answer based on your worst days, not your best, and be specific about the help and time you need. Many successful claims are undermined by people understating their difficulties because they feel they should not complain or because they compare themselves to people with more severe conditions.
The assessment
Most claimants are asked to attend a PIP assessment carried out by a healthcare professional. This can be in person, over the phone, or by video. Take someone with you if you can. Bring any evidence of your condition: letters from your GP or specialists, prescriptions, or a diary of how your condition affects your daily life. You are allowed to request a copy of the assessor's report afterwards.
If you are refused
A significant proportion of initial PIP decisions are overturned on appeal. If you are refused or awarded less than you believe you are entitled to, you can request a mandatory reconsideration and then appeal to an independent tribunal. Citizens Advice and disability charities can help you through this process. The appeal success rate is high enough that challenging a decision is always worth considering.
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Ask Fin provides general guidance only. PIP eligibility rules change. Always check the current guidance at gov.uk/pip or speak with Citizens Advice.