The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to make significant changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system, with new eligibility rules planned for November 2026.
These reforms will affect both new and existing claimants, though only those undergoing reviews after this date will experience the changes. According to Devon Live, the latest data shows that over 1.5 million claimants have been awarded long-term support.
High Chances of a £749 Award
The DWP’s reform aims to align benefits with the claimant’s ability to live independently. Visual disease claimants have a notably high chance of receiving the highest monthly award, up to £749.
This figure is calculated based on both daily living and mobility components, which combined can result in this maximum amount. Over 58% of individuals with visual diseases have been granted this long-term award.
Additionally, over 50% of claimants with musculoskeletal conditions, such as arthritis or joint pain, and neurological conditions, such as epilepsy or multiple sclerosis, have been granted longer awards. These figures indicate that certain types of conditions are more likely to lead to extended support periods.
Award Types and Review Processes
While awards vary, most claimants receive PIP for periods ranging from nine months to 10 years. However, DWP data only tracks awards given for five years or more. A claimant’s award length is determined based on how their health condition affects their daily life, as stated in the PIP Handbook:
The length of the award will be based upon each claimant’s individual circumstances.
A key element in the process is the regular review of claims, regardless of the award length. As the DWP guidance states:
Regardless of the length of the award, [reviews ensure] everyone continues to receive the most appropriate level of support.
A ‘light touch’ review is typically granted to those with high-level, stable needs or conditions that are unlikely to change, including those at or near State Pension age. DWP guidance also mentions:
These claimants would not usually be expected to have a face-to-face assessment at review.
Pip’s Financial Impact
PIP claimants can see an increase in their awards due to an annual rise of 1.7%. This increase, which began in 2025, results in weekly payments of between £29.20 and £187.45, depending on the award level.
For those receiving the highest award, this equates to approximately £749.80 every four-week pay period. This boost can lead to an annual increase of up to £9,747 for the highest award recipients.
It’s important to note that the £749.80 figure refers to those receiving the maximum for both the daily living and mobility components.
Conditions With Highest Chance of a Long-Term Pip Award
Certain health conditions are more likely to result in five-year or longer PIP awards. These include visual diseases, general musculoskeletal diseases, neurological diseases, respiratory diseases, and autoimmune diseases (such as connective tissue disorders).
Additionally, regional musculoskeletal diseases also increase the likelihood of receiving long-term support. Claimants living with these conditions are more likely to receive extended assistance due to the severity and long-term nature of their health challenges.
To qualify for PIP, individuals must experience difficulties in daily living or mobility due to a long-term health condition or disability. The condition must last for at least three months and be expected to continue for at least another nine months. The DWP also requires claimants to have lived in the UK for at least two out of the past three years.
Claimants can receive assistance with daily activities like managing treatments, mobility, dressing, and cooking. The application process involves providing necessary personal details, including contact information, medical details, and National Insurance number.
