Personal Independence Payment (PIP) plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with long-term health conditions or disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary financial aid.
However, many claimants may be uncertain about which changes in their circumstances must be reported to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to avoid interruptions in payments. While there are several changes that require notification, there are also specific situations where claimants do not need to inform the DWP.
What Doesn’t Need to Be Reported
PIP is not a means-tested benefit, meaning claimants can receive support regardless of their employment status. As such, several changes in a claimant’s life do not require reporting. According to official guidelines, claimants do not need to inform the DWP about the following situations:
- Starting or Leaving a Job: If a claimant starts a new job, leaves their current employment, or is made redundant, there is no obligation to notify the DWP. These events will not affect the eligibility for PIP or its payment.
- Changes in Other Benefits: Claimants do not need to report if they stop claiming other benefits, such as Universal Credit or Jobseeker’s Allowance, as PIP eligibility is independent of these means-tested supports.
- Retirement: Retiring from work or reaching retirement age also does not necessitate informing the DWP, unless the retirement affects the claimant’s mobility or care needs.
These situations are exempt from reporting, helping to simplify the process for claimants and reduce administrative burdens. PIP, which can now be worth between £29.20 and £187.45 per week (or £116.80 to £749.80 every four weeks), is designed to help offset the additional costs of living with a disability or long-term health condition.
Key Changes That Must Be Reported to DWP
While several life events do not require DWP notification, others must be declared immediately. Claimants are advised to report significant changes, including:
- Health or Mobility Changes: Any changes in the claimant’s health, the help they require, or their condition, must be communicated. For example, a worsening condition that requires more care or assistance should be reported to ensure the correct support level is maintained.
- Personal Information: Any updates to personal details such as a change of address, GP, or name must also be reported to ensure the DWP can accurately process payments.
- Going Abroad or Entering Care: Leaving the country for more than four weeks or entering a care home or hospital must be declared. These situations can affect the claimant’s eligibility for continued PIP support.
It is crucial for claimants to ensure these changes are reported to avoid potential legal issues, including penalties or cessation of benefits.
To report any changes, claimants should have their National Insurance number, bank account details, and GP’s name and address ready. They can then contact the DWP using the following methods:
- Telephone: 0800 121 4433 (option 5)
- Textphone: 0800 121 4493
- Relay UK (for those who cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001, then 0800 121 4433
- Video Relay Service for British Sign Language (BSL) users – check availability here.
By following these procedures, claimants can ensure they continue receiving the necessary financial support without risk of delays or penalties.
