PIP claimants may get £700 per month: People receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) in Scotland are being urged to update the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) if their health condition changes.
These benefits are not based on a diagnosis, but rather on how a condition affects daily life and mobility. This means that even minor changes could increase or decrease payments significantly.
How Reporting Changes Could Boost Your Payments
- PIP payments vary depending on how much support you need.
- If your condition worsens, you could qualify for a higher rate, increasing your benefits by nearly £700 per month.
For example:
| PIP Rate | Weekly Amount | Monthly Total |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Mobility Component | £28.70 | £114.80 |
| Enhanced Mobility & Daily Living Components | £184.30 | £737.20 |
If you originally received the lower rate but your condition deteriorates, you could be eligible for an increase to the enhanced rate.
Risks of Reporting Changes
While some claimants may see an increase in payments, others may:
- Have their payments reduced if they need less support.
- Lose eligibility altogether if their condition improves significantly.
The government states:
“The assessment considers the impact of a claimant’s condition on their ability to live independently, not just the condition itself.”
Even two people with the same diagnosis could receive different PIP amounts, based on how their condition affects them individually.
Changes That Must Be Reported to DWP
You must inform DWP if:
- You need more or less help with daily tasks.
- You need more or less support with mobility.
- Your doctor updates your prognosis (longer or shorter duration than expected).
- Your condition worsens and you are not expected to live more than 12 months.
How to Report a Change
- Call the PIP Enquiry Line: 0800 121 4433
Failure to report changes could be considered benefit fraud, and you may be required to repay overpaid funds.
PIP and ADP: Key Facts
- 3.6 million people in the UK receive PIP.
- Only 36% of claimants receive the highest benefit rate.
- In Scotland, ADP has replaced PIP for new claims, with existing PIP claims transitioning soon.
For more details, visit Gov.uk or Social Security Scotland.
Keeping DWP informed of any changes ensures that you receive the correct level of support. If your condition worsens, you could see a significant increase in benefits, but if it improves, your payments may be reduced or stopped.
Always report any changes promptly to avoid potential overpayments or fraud investigations.
FAQ’s
Why should I report changes in my health to DWP?
PIP and ADP payments depend on how your condition affects daily life and mobility. Reporting changes ensures you receive the correct amount and avoid overpayment issues.
How can reporting changes increase my PIP payments?
If your condition worsens, you may qualify for higher PIP rates, potentially increasing payments to £737.20 per month.
Can my PIP payments be reduced if I report an improvement in my condition?
Yes, if your condition improves and you require less support, your payments may be reduced or even stopped.
What happens if I don’t report changes to my condition?
Failing to report changes could lead to an overpayment, which you may have to repay. In some cases, it could be considered benefit fraud.
What types of changes should I report to DWP?
You should report if you need more or less help with daily tasks, your condition is expected to last longer or shorter than previously stated, or if your doctor advises that you may not live more than 12 months.
How do I report a change in my PIP or ADP claim?
You can call the PIP enquiry line at 0800 121 4433 to update your information.
How many people receive PIP in the UK?
Around 3.6 million people receive PIP, but only 36% qualify for the maximum payment.
What is the difference between PIP and ADP?
PIP is for people in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, PIP has been replaced by Adult Disability Payment (ADP) for new claimants.
Can I apply for PIP if I live in Scotland?
No, new claimants in Scotland must apply for ADP instead of PIP. Existing PIP claimants will transition to ADP over time.
Where can I find more information about PIP and ADP?
You can visit the UK government website for details on PIP or the Social Security Scotland website for ADP information.
