The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed new rules for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) that will take effect from June 2, 2026. The changes will significantly extend the time between reviews for claimants aged 25 and over, reducing the frequency of checks.
Extended Award Periods
Under the new regulations, claimants will receive PIP awards for four years after an initial assessment, followed by a further six years after a review. This marks a major shift from the current system, where reviews can occur as often as every nine months. The DWP states that the changes are intended to safeguard the efficient administration of PIP.
Political Reaction
Helen Whately, the shadow work and pensions secretary, has criticized the move. She said: “Reviews are the only way we can check whether an award is still correct. Fewer reviews mean more people receiving handouts for longer, at greater cost to the taxpayer. People who could work will instead be left on payments for years without anyone asking whether that is right for them or fair to the taxpayer.”
Ms Whately added: “Instead of gripping the crisis, Labour is watering down the checks that decide whether awards are fair.”
Legal Details
The Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance (Decisions and Appeals) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 will come into force on 2 June 2026. The amendment inserts a new clause 22A into the 2013 regulations, which allows the Secretary of State to extend the length of a fixed-term PIP award when considered necessary for efficient administration.
A full impact assessment has not been produced, as no significant impact on the private, voluntary sector or community bodies is foreseen.
