The Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is an essential benefit from the UK government for individuals aged sixteen to state pension age who have long-term physical or mental health conditions or disabilities. It assists with covering additional expenses that arise from difficulties with daily living tasks or mobility. PIP is modernizing the older Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and continues to provide non-taxable, non-means-tested, financial assistance which ensures that income and savings do not affect its receipt. The benefit is split into two components; the Daily Living and the Mobility component which are both paid at standard or enhanced rates depending on the assessed need.
Who Can Claim PIP and How to Apply?
The claimant must have previously having faced difficulties with daily living tasks and mobility for at least three months with an expectation that the difficulties will persist for a further nine months in order to qualify for PIP. The process starts with the PIP Centre, whom need to be contacted for the claim to be initiated. This is either via telephone or post and requires a form with personal and medical details. The majority of participants do need to undergo a form of assessment by an independent health professional either by telephone, in person or via post to determine the appropriate level of support necessary. Notably, PIP is available to both unemployed participants and employed workers, and is not affected by savings or other forms of income. Payment rates are made as per the assessment results and needs.
How Much Financial Support is Available?
Payments made under PIP will depend on whether the applicant is entitled to the Daily Living and/or Mobility component. Both components are divided into two separate tiers: standard and enhanced. All of the payments are made on a four weekly basis and are subject to review on an ongoing basis to establish continued eligibility and correct support levels.
Claimants awarded with the Mobility component may qualify for additional benefits like Blue Badge, exemptions on vehicle tax, discounted taxes for disabled peoples, or other benefits under the Motability Scheme. Both components also grant access to the Disabled Persons Railcard and in some areas discounted local travel, or council tax.
What Are the Next Steps After Your Claim?
Following the assessment and review the claimant will work with the DWP and PIP to ensure all processes and reporting is done correctly. After all processes are done, the DWP will communicate with the claimant or representative in a timely manner and explain all the steps in the decision-making process. Claimants are usually subject to regular PIP reviews to ensure payments are appropriately aligned with the claimant’s requirements. Changes in circumstances or health conditions are to be reported immediately, as the information could impact entitlement or payment amounts.
