Personal Independence Payment: Key Points for Claimants
Introduction
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit that helps people with long-term disabilities or health conditions to live more independently. It is replacing Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people aged 16 to 64. Here are some key points about PIP that claimants should be aware of.
Eligibility and Qualifying Conditions
To be eligible for PIP, claimants must meet certain criteria, including:
- Aged 16 or over but have not yet reached State Pension age
- Have a physical or mental disability, or a combination of both, that affects their ability to carry out everyday tasks or get around
- Be expected to have this difficulty for at least 9 months
Claimants do not need to be registered as disabled to claim PIP. However, they will need to provide evidence of their disability or health condition, such as a doctor's letter or a diagnosis from a healthcare professional.
How to Claim PIP
Claimants can apply for PIP online, by phone, or by post. The claim form can be found on the GOV.UK website. When completing the form, claimants will need to provide information about their disability or health condition, as well as any other factors that may affect their ability to live independently.
Once the claim form has been submitted, it will be assessed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The DWP may ask claimants to attend an assessment to provide further evidence of their disability or health condition.
How PIP is Paid
If a claim for PIP is successful, claimants will receive monthly payments. The amount of PIP they receive will depend on the severity of their disability or health condition, and how it affects their ability to carry out everyday tasks and get around.
PIP is paid in two parts:
- Daily living component - this helps with the extra costs of everyday living, such as washing, dressing, and getting around
- Mobility component - this helps with the extra costs of getting around, such as using public transport or taxis
Appealing a PIP Decision
If a claim for PIP is unsuccessful, claimants have the right to appeal the decision. They can do this by writing to the DWP or by calling the PIP Enquiry Line. Claimants will need to provide reasons for their appeal, and they may be asked to attend an additional assessment.
Support and Information
There are a number of organizations that can provide support and information to people claiming PIP. These include:
- Turn2us - a charity that provides free and independent advice on benefits and tax credits
- Citizens Advice - a charity that provides free and confidential advice on a wide range of issues, including benefits
- Disability Rights UK - a charity that provides advice and support to people with disabilities
