The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released projections showing an average annual reduction of £4,500 in Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for hundreds of thousands of claimants by 2029, as part of a sweeping welfare reform package.
This projection, based on expected savings, has drawn significant attention due to its potential impact on individuals with long-term disabilities or health conditions.
However, an in-depth analysis reported by DevonLive suggests that real losses could exceed £5,740 annually for many recipients. These figures have intensified scrutiny over the scope and fairness of the proposed eligibility changes set to begin in November 2026.
How PIP Works and What Is Changing
PIP is a benefit designed to help individuals with long-term disabilities or health conditions manage the extra daily costs they incur. It comprises two components—daily living and mobility—each offered at a lower or higher rate depending on the person’s assessed level of need.
From November 2026, eligibility for the daily living component will require claimants to score at least one activity at 4 points. Under the current system, people who score 2 points across several categories can still qualify.
This change means individuals needing assistance or supervision with tasks such as eating or bathing, but not reaching a single 4-point threshold, may no longer be eligible.
Real Financial Impact Exceeds Official Projections
According to the DWP, the £4,500 figure was calculated by dividing £3.6 billion in projected savings by the 800,000 people expected to lose entitlement in the 2029/2030 tax year. But current PIP payment rates suggest this average severely underrepresents the true financial loss.
In 2024 :
- The lower daily living rate is £73.90 per week, or £3,842.80 annually
- The higher daily living rate is £110.40 weekly, or £5,740.80 annually
This higher amount is already £1,240.80 more than the DWP estimate. And with four annual increases tied to inflation scheduled before 2029, actual losses are projected to grow further. These annual adjustments, typically applied every April, mean that many claimants could face total annual losses well over £6,000 by the time the rule is implemented.
The revised eligibility criteria may exclude claimants with substantial daily needs, despite not hitting the single 4-point threshold.
Those scoring 2 points in multiple categories—for instance, needing supervision while eating, dressing, or bathing—could lose access entirely to the daily living component, despite facing real challenges and costs.
This change has been heavily criticized by benefits experts and advocacy organizations who warn that the reform risks removing support from people with clear, medically documented needs.
Voices From the Sector : Everyday Costs of Disability
Rebecca Lamb, external relations manager at Money Wellness, described the scale and variety of costs faced by people living with disabilities:
The extra costs for aids and appliances can vary a lot depending on the person’s condition and what support they need. Some people might only need a few low-cost items, like grab rails or a walking stick, while others might need more expensive equipment such as wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or specialist beds, which can run into hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
There are also ongoing costs to think about, like maintenance, batteries, or upgrades. Plus, many people face extra costs in other areas too, like transport, heating, or help with daily tasks. Estimations put it at an extra £900 a month when compared to the needs of those without disabilities.
Lamb encouraged individuals with significant disability-related expenses to explore charitable grants or apply for local authority aid, including the Household Support Fund.
Government Position on PIP Changes
Responding to the backlash, a DWP spokesperson defended the upcoming changes :
We have been clear that protecting people in need is a principle we will never compromise on. The social security system will always be there for those with severe health conditions, and we will introduce a new premium for those who will never be able to work.
Our reforms will unlock work for sick and disabled people who can and want to be in employment—backed by a £1 billion support offer to guarantee tailored help into work—ensuring they are supported to live with dignity and independence, whilst making sure that everyone who can realise the benefits of work is expected and supported to do so.
