How to apply for PIP in the UK

ByThiago SF

The Personal Independence Payment — known simply as PIP — is more than a benefit.

How long does it take to get a decision on PIP
How to appeal a PIP decision
What conditions automatically qualify for PIP
How to contact the PIP helpline
How to renew or review my PIP claim

It’s a recognition of independence, dignity, and daily effort.

For thousands of people across the UK, applying for PIP means gaining support to live with autonomy and confidence.

But how do you actually apply for it?

Below you’ll find everything you need to understand, prepare, and begin your application — step by step, in plain English.

1️⃣ What PIP Is and Why It Exists

PIP is a financial support benefit for people who have a long-term health condition or disability that affects their ability to carry out everyday tasks or get around.

It’s managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and replaces the old Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults.

The main purpose of PIP is to help you stay independent, not to cover all costs, but to give you flexibility — to adapt, to move forward, and to live with dignity.

2️⃣ Check If You’re Eligible

Before starting, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria:

✅ You’re aged 16 or over and below State Pension age.
✅ You live in England, Scotland, or Wales (Northern Ireland has a separate system).
✅ You have a long-term physical or mental condition that affects your daily life or mobility.
✅ These difficulties are expected to last at least 12 months.

There are two components:

  • Daily Living (for help with everyday tasks).
  • Mobility (for help getting around).
    You may qualify for one or both.

3️⃣ Information You’ll Need Before You Apply

Before calling or submitting anything, prepare these essential details:

📄 National Insurance number
🏦 Bank or building society details
⚕️ Doctor’s or healthcare provider’s contact information
🗓️ Dates spent abroad, in hospital, or in care homes

Having this ready will make your application smoother and avoid delays.

4️⃣ How to Start Your PIP Claim

Most people begin their PIP claim by phone.

Call the PIP new claims line:
📞 Telephone: 0800 917 2222
📞 Textphone: 0800 917 7777
📞 Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 917 2222
🕗 Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm

If you prefer to apply by post, you can request a form by writing to the address on GOV.UK.
In some pilot areas, you may also be invited to apply online.

🔗 Official GOV.UK page: https://www.gov.uk/pip/how-to-claim

Once you call, DWP will send you the main application form called “How Your Disability Affects You” (PIP2).

5️⃣ Completing the PIP2 Form

This form is your opportunity to describe how your condition affects your daily life — cooking, dressing, managing medication, moving around.

Be clear, detailed, and honest.

💡 Tip: Instead of writing what you can do, explain what you struggle to do and how often.
Provide examples and, if possible, medical evidence.

Return the form within one month from the date it was sent to you.

6️⃣ The PIP Assessment

After you return your form, the DWP may invite you for an assessment.
This could be:

  • Face-to-face,
  • Over a video call, or
  • On paper (if enough evidence is provided).

Health professionals from independent providers (like IAS or Capita) carry out these assessments.
They will ask questions and sometimes perform short physical or mental tests — all to understand your daily limitations.

7️⃣ The Decision and Payment

You’ll receive a decision letter explaining whether you qualify, which components you get, and at what rate (standard or enhanced).

💷 Payments are made every 4 weeks, directly into your bank or building society account.
The amount varies depending on how your condition affects you — not your income or savings.

Most decisions take several weeks, though this can vary depending on evidence and demand.

8️⃣ If You Disagree with the Decision

If you think the decision is wrong, you can ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration — a review by someone not involved in the first decision.

If you still disagree afterward, you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
You’ll find guidance for both steps on the GOV.UK website.

9️⃣ Reporting Changes

If your health condition, personal situation, or living arrangements change, you must tell the DWP.
This could increase or decrease your payments.

Use the same contact number (0800 121 4433) or write to the DWP office shown in your PIP letters.

🔟 Useful Resources and Support

🌐 GOV.UK PIP portal: https://www.gov.uk/pip
💬 Citizens Advice guide: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk
📞 PIP enquiry line (existing claims): 0800 121 4433
🤝 Disability Rights UK: independent guidance and benefit calculators.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ How long does it take to get a PIP decision?
It can take up to 3 months from the initial claim to receive a decision, depending on evidence and workload.

2️⃣ Can I apply for PIP online?
In some areas, yes — but currently the main way to apply is by phone. Always check GOV.UK for updates.

3️⃣ Do I need a medical certificate to apply?
No, but medical evidence (like letters or reports) helps support your case.

4️⃣ What if I can’t fill in the forms myself?
You can ask someone to help you — a friend, family member, or an adviser from Citizens Advice.

5️⃣ Is PIP taxable or means-tested?
No. PIP is tax-free and not affected by income or savings.

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