Personal Independence Payment

If you’ve got an illness or disability, claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could help you.

What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit for people who may need help with daily activities or getting around because of a long-term illness or disability.

PIP has two parts - a daily living component and a mobility component.

PIP has replaced Disability Living Allowance for anyone making a new claim.

How much could I get?

How much you can get depends on how difficult it is for you to do certain things, such as preparing food and drink, dressing and undressing, or moving around.

You may be able to claim one or both components.

How can PIP help me?

If you have an illness or disability it can make life difficult and affect your income too (especially if you have to give up work or cut down your hours). Having a little extra money could help you to pay for things you need or want. You can spend PIP on whatever you need it for.  

Am I eligible to claim PIP?

You may be eligible for PIP if you’re aged between 16 and 64 and need help with daily living activities or getting around, or both. If you’re awarded PIP before you’re 65, you’ll continue to receive it after age 65. You can still make a claim if you’re working.

• PIP isn’t based on your National Insurance contributions and isn’t means-tested, which means it doesn’t matter how much income or savings you have.
• If you're 65 or over and have care needs, you should claim Attendance Allowance instead.

How do I claim PIP?

Step one: To start your claim call the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on 0800 917 2222 (textphone 0800 917 7777). They will ask for basic information and then send you a claim form.

Step two: Fill in the claim form. If you need any help with this, contact your local Age UK.

Step three: Your claim will be assessed by a healthcare professional and you might have a face-to-face assessment.

Step four: You’ll get a score based on how much help you need and this will affect how much PIP you’ll receive.

Step five: You will be informed of the decision on your claim. If your claim is turned down you can challenge it. Talk to your local Age UK for advice or read our advice on How to challenge a benefits decision.

What should I do next?

Contact the Department for Work and Pensions to claim PIP