The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recently reported that there are currently 3.5 million people across Great Britain, including nearly 219,000 in Scotland, claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which is a disability benefit. However, not everyone might be aware of how the length of a successful PIP award can vary. Awards can range from as short as nine months to being an ongoing award with a ‘light touch’ review every 10 years. The decision on the length of a PIP award is based on how the claimant’s health condition or disability affects their daily life and ability to live independently.
It’s essential to note that the DWP regularly reviews most claimants’ awards, regardless of the length of the award, to ensure they receive the appropriate level of support. Some claimants may receive fixed-period awards for up to two years, which are not reviewed. Awards without a review date are given when someone’s health is likely to improve. For those approaching the end of life, three-year awards are given, with all recipients receiving the higher rate for daily living based on the difficulty of moving around. ‘Light touch’ reviews are for claimants with very stable needs or high-level needs unlikely to change significantly over time.
PIP and Adult Disability Payment (ADP) recipients can receive between £26.90 to £172.75 extra per week, depending on the level of support needed. The payment is made every four weeks, totaling between £107.60 to £691.00 per payment period. Starting from April 8, 2024, payments are set to increase by 6.7 percent. The amount of PIP received depends on the challenges faced with daily activities like preparing food, washing, going to the toilet, and mobility limitations. Most PIP awards have a set time frame mentioned in the decision letter, but the DWP can review awards before the end date.
Individuals with the highest level of PIP who have severe conditions that are expected to stay the same or worsen over time may receive an ongoing award with a ‘light touch’ review every 10 years. Claimants are typically required to apply for a renewal before the award ends. Changes in a recipient’s condition, whether improving or worsening, can affect their PIP award. Claimants must notify the DWP of any changes to avoid missing out on benefits or receiving excess payments. PIP stops after spending 28 days in a hospital but resumes upon discharge, and the daily living component stops after 28 days in a care home.
Getting older does not halt a PIP award, but it can impact the ability to renew or make a new claim. Claimants over State Pension age must renew their claim when their current award ends. Currently, there are 650,801 people above State Pension age claiming PIP, and those whose awards ended over a year ago cannot renew claims. They may be eligible for Attendance Allowance instead, although this does not include a mobility component. To find comprehensive information about PIP, individuals can visit the GOV.UK website for further assistance and guidance.
