How long does it take to get a decision on PIP

ByThiago SF

Waiting for a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) decision can be one of the most anxious stages in the process.

You’ve filled the forms, provided evidence, maybe attended an assessment — and now you wait.

So, how long does it actually take to hear back from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)?

Let’s unpack what the official timelines say, what really happens in practice, and what you can do while you wait.

1️⃣ Understanding the PIP Decision Timeline

PIP isn’t a one-step process. Each stage — from your first call to your final letter — adds time.
The journey typically involves:

  1. Starting your claim and receiving your form.
  2. Sending back the “How your disability affects you” (PIP2) form.
  3. Having your medical assessment (if required).
  4. Waiting for a DWP case manager to review everything and make the decision.

On average, a full PIP claim takes around 20 weeks from the day you start your application until you get your final decision letter.

2️⃣ Official Targets vs. Real Waiting Times

According to the UK Government, there’s no legal deadline for a PIP decision.
However, the DWP aims to process most claims within 75 working days (around 16 weeks).

In reality, the average waiting time can be longer.

  • Many applicants report waiting 18 to 22 weeks.
  • Some receive a decision in as little as 8 weeks, while others wait over 6 months.
  • Delays are often linked to high demand and the availability of assessment appointments.

So while there is a target, it’s not a guarantee — and your case may move faster or slower depending on backlog and complexity.

3️⃣ From Assessment to Decision

Once your assessment is completed, your report is sent to the DWP.
A case manager will then:

  • Review the health professional’s report.
  • Consider your PIP2 form and supporting evidence.
  • Make the final decision on entitlement and rate.

This final review usually takes 2 to 12 weeks after your assessment.
If the DWP needs more medical evidence or verification, this stage may take longer.

4️⃣ Review Decisions vs. New Claims

Not all PIP decisions are new applications. Some are reviews of existing awards — and these can take much longer.

Here’s what current data shows:

  • Standard reviews (referred to assessment): around 290 days on average.
  • Non-assessment reviews: around 252 days.
  • Change-of-circumstance reviews: typically 69 days on average.

These delays often happen because the DWP prioritizes new claims before reviews, leading to longer queues for re-evaluations.

If your review is pending, your existing PIP payments usually continue until a new decision is made.

5️⃣ What Causes Delays in PIP Decisions

Several factors can extend the waiting period:

⚠️ Missing or incomplete medical evidence — if the DWP needs to request extra reports.
⚙️ Assessment provider delays — Capita or IAS (Atos) backlogs can slow things down.
📈 High national demand — surges in claims after policy changes or awareness campaigns.
📋 Complex cases — conditions that require multiple specialists or detailed assessment.
📬 Postal delays — when forms or letters take longer to arrive.

Each stage adds days or even weeks — which is why patience and preparation are key.

6️⃣ What You Can Do While Waiting

While waiting for your decision, you’re not powerless. You can:

📞 Contact the PIP enquiry line — ask if your assessment report has been received or if a decision has been made.

  • Telephone: 0800 121 4433 (Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm).

🗂️ Request a copy of your assessment report — this can help you understand what evidence was considered.

📑 Submit new evidence — if your health condition has changed or you’ve received additional medical documents.

🤝 Seek support — Citizens Advice and Disability Rights UK can help you navigate the waiting period and check progress.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ Is there a fixed time for a PIP decision?
No. There’s no legal deadline, but most claims take around 20 weeks from start to finish.

2️⃣ How long after my assessment will I get a decision?
Usually between 2 and 12 weeks, depending on DWP workload and the clarity of evidence.

3️⃣ Why is my PIP decision taking so long?
Backlogs, missing medical evidence, and review complexity are the most common causes.

4️⃣ Can I still get paid while waiting for a review decision?
Yes. If you already receive PIP and are under review, your current payments continue until a new decision is issued.

5️⃣ Who can I contact for updates?
You can call the PIP enquiry line at 0800 121 4433 or visit the official portal at https://www.gov.uk/pip.

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