Newly released government statistics have pinpointed the five health conditions most frequently associated with successful claims for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), covering the period up to October 2025, provides a clear snapshot of where this vital financial support is directed.
Which Conditions Are Most Common for PIP Support?
The latest figures reveal a significant concentration of claims related to mental and physical health challenges. Psychiatric disorders, encompassing a range of mental health conditions, were the most recorded, accounting for a substantial 39% of all claims. This highlights the profound impact such conditions have on individuals' daily living and mobility.
Following this, musculoskeletal diseases—which affect joints, bones, and muscles—were the next most prevalent. These claims were split into two categories: general musculoskeletal disease (19% of claims) and regional musculoskeletal disease (12%). Neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis or epilepsy, accounted for 13% of claims, while respiratory diseases like severe asthma or COPD made up 4%.
Understanding the Scale of PIP Support
The DWP data shows that in the three months leading to the end of October 2025, a total of 210,000 new claims for PIP were registered. Out of these, approximately 170,000 applications reached a conclusion, being either awarded, withdrawn by the claimant, or disallowed by the department.
Overall, the number of people receiving PIP across England and Wales continues to grow. As of the latest count, 3.9 million individuals are entitled to the benefit, marking a 1% increase from the figures recorded at the end of July.
How Does the Personal Independence Payment Work?
Personal Independence Payment is a non-means-tested benefit designed for people below State Pension age who need help with daily activities or moving around due to a long-term illness or disability. Unlike some benefits, it is not dependent on National Insurance contributions or savings.
The amount a person receives depends on how their condition affects them, assessed through activities like preparing food, dressing, and mobility. PIP consists of two components:
- A daily living component for help with everyday tasks.
- A mobility component for help with getting around.
Claimants may be eligible for one or both parts. The benefit is gradually replacing the older Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for most people, though those born before 8 April 1948 who already claim DLA can continue to do so. Individuals over State Pension age with new care needs should apply for Attendance Allowance instead.
Recipients are free to spend their PIP award on whatever they need, whether that's specialised equipment, transport costs, or general living expenses to offset the additional costs of living with a disability.
