Millions of people nationwide are presently claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP). There are currently 3.5 million individuals receiving up to £737.20 every four-week pay cycle.
PIP Update: DWP Extends Payments for Claimants As Awards End
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) stated that there were 392,000 outstanding award assessments for PIP in England and Wales by the end of May. The DWP disclosed earlier in the year that it prioritizes processing first-time claimants so that they can receive the financial assistance they need as quickly as possible.
But it has also taken the necessary steps to ensure that existing claimants do not stop receiving payments upon the conclusion of their award. Those whose PIP award is ending soon will have payments automatically extended for up to 12 months — until the evaluation process is completed.
The DWP stated that some people may face a 'break in payment' if their renewal submission is delayed until just shortly before their current PIP award ends, as reported by Daily Record. This could impact anyone with a fixed-term award but with no a review date.
If this is the case, it is crucial to know that PIP can be backdated to the date of the claim. This means that claimants, whose current PIP award ends and payments cease, would receive missed payments if their renewal claim is approved.
The DWP usually sends reminders six months before the award's expiration, to ask if the claimant intends to keep on receiving PIP. If they do, they need to submit a new claim.
DWP Addresses Processing Times and Award Reviews
The most recent DWP figures show that 51.7% of all new PIP applications are processed within the designated target time of 75 working days — the processing time remains under 15 weeks. The DWP responded to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request regarding PIP award review backlog and processing times in June.
It stated: “As of May 31, 2024, there were 392,000 Award Reviews outstanding in England and Wales.” There is no timeline for clearing the backlog, it said.
It included: “The main reason for the length of time to complete PIP award reviews is very high demand for PIP. We are seeing unprecedented numbers of new claims being made.
“To manage this demand, and ensure cases are put into payment as soon as possible, we are prioritising these claims.” The DWP said claimants who request a review are prioritised over department-initiated reviews.
The response added: “We have been actively recruiting additional case managers to meet the additional demand. However, it takes time to train and consolidate new entrants.
“Our assessment providers have also been taking steps to increase the number of healthcare professionals they employ, but again this takes time and there is an extensive training period to make sure quality standards are met.
“For customers waiting for a review, we keep them updated using SMS text messages. We also ensure that all PIP awards remain in payment for those affected by delays, extending awards for up to 12 months where necessary and informing customers in writing.”
If your PIP award is set to expire this year, make sure the DWP has your correct contact information. More details can be found on GOV.UK here.