Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is the main disability benefit for working-age adults (16 to State Pension age) in England, Wales and Scotland. It helps with the extra costs of a disability or long-term health condition. PIP is not means-tested — it does not depend on income or savings — and can be claimed whether you work or not.
The two components
Daily living component: for help with everyday tasks such as preparing food, washing, dressing, managing medication, communicating and planning journeys. Paid at standard or enhanced rate.
Mobility component: for help getting around. Paid at standard or enhanced rate. The enhanced mobility rate qualifies you for the Motability scheme.
How PIP is assessed
You complete a PIP2 form describing how your condition affects daily life. You are then assessed by a health professional. Points are awarded for each activity based on how your condition affects your ability to do it reliably, repeatedly and safely.
The key word is reliably. PIP assesses not whether you can do something on your best day, but whether you can do it reliably — to an acceptable standard, repeatedly, in a reasonable time, and safely. Many people underestimate entitlement by describing their best day rather than a typical or bad day.
If your claim is refused
A significant proportion of initial PIP decisions are overturned on appeal. If refused or awarded lower than expected, you can request a Mandatory Reconsideration and then appeal to a tribunal. Statistics consistently show that supported appeals have a higher success rate.
General guidance only — not regulated financial advice.