Thousands of people across the UK could be entitled to a significant monthly payment from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition. The Personal Independence Payment (PIP) offers financial support of up to £812 every month, and it is not solely for those with visible physical disabilities.
Which Health Conditions Are Recognised for PIP?
The DWP assesses the impact of a condition, not the condition itself. However, applications from people with a wide spectrum of physical and mental health challenges are regularly considered. The list of recognised conditions includes, but is not limited to, the following 19 key areas:
- Arthritis and joint problems
- Chronic pain conditions
- Neurological conditions (e.g., Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s)
- Heart and lung conditions
- Cancer and its treatment effects
- Mobility impairments
- Chronic fatigue syndrome/ME
- Depression and anxiety disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia and psychosis
- Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Eating disorders
- Personality disorders
- Autism spectrum disorders
- ADHD
- Learning disabilities
- Dementia (for those under State Pension age)
- Brain injuries
You can claim PIP even if you are working, have savings, or receive most other benefits. The payment is designed to assist with the additional costs associated with having a health condition or disability.
How the Personal Independence Payment Works
PIP is divided into two components: a daily living part and a mobility part. Your application can qualify for one or both. Each component has two payment rates – standard and enhanced – depending on how your condition affects you.
The assessment focuses on your ability to carry out specific everyday tasks and get around. The maximum weekly rates are £108.55 for daily living and £75.75 for mobility, which together total £184.30 weekly, or around £812 per month.
How to Start Your PIP Claim
To begin a new claim for Personal Independence Payment, you need to contact the DWP directly. The process starts with a phone call.
Call the PIP new claims line on 0800 917 2222 (textphone: 0800 917 7777). The line is open Monday to Friday, from 8am to 6pm. You will need to provide some basic information about yourself and your condition during this initial call.
Following the call, the DWP will send you a ‘How your disability affects you’ form (known as the PIP2 form) usually within a week. You will have one month to complete and return this form, but you can request an extension if you need more time. Full guidance and information can also be found on the official GOV.UK website.
Taking this step could provide crucial financial support to help manage the ongoing challenges posed by a long-term health condition.
