New claimants for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) may be eligible for ongoing awards lasting up to 10 years, according to recent guidance and data analysis. This significant change, introduced in 2019, particularly benefits individuals approaching State Pension age, offering them long-term financial stability without frequent reviews.
PIP Claimant Statistics and Age Demographics
The latest figures from the DWP reveal a substantial number of people across Great Britain relying on PIP for support. As of the end of October, there are 3.9 million individuals claiming this disability benefit. Among them, a notable segment includes older adults, with 753,206 claimants aged between 65 and 79. This group sees their monthly income potentially boosted to up to £1,670.80 when combined with State Pension payments.
Further breakdown shows that 529,216 PIP claimants are aged between 60 and 64, receiving financial support ranging from £116.80 to £749.80 every four-week pay period. Many people over 56, who are nearing State Pension age, might not be aware of the 2019 guidance update. This change states that claimants whose reviews would have occurred at State Pension age are now generally awarded ongoing awards, which typically last for 10 years.
Understanding Ongoing Awards and Review Periods
Ongoing awards for PIP are set on an individual basis, taking into account the claimant's specific needs and the likelihood of those needs changing over time. The DWP guidance explains that review periods for fixed-length awards usually range from a minimum of nine months to a maximum of 10 years. Awards of two years or less are considered short-term, while review periods under nine months are reserved for exceptional circumstances only.
The assessment process considers factors such as planned treatment or therapy, as well as the individual's ability to learn or adapt to managing their condition. This personalised approach ensures that claimants receive appropriate support without unnecessary disruptions.
Combined Incomes with State Pension
When combined with State Pension, PIP can provide a significant financial boost. The complete New State Pension is currently valued at £230.25 weekly, or £921 every four-week payment period. Meanwhile, the Basic State Pension can reach up to £176.45 weekly, equivalent to £705.80 every four weeks. The exact amount depends on the individual's National Insurance contributions.
For Scottish claimants, Adult Disability Payment (ADP) replaces PIP, but the combined income potential remains similar. Based on receiving the complete New State Pension and the maximum PIP or ADP awards for both daily living and mobility components, the total monthly income can reach up to £1,670.80.
PIP and ADP Payment Rates Explained
PIP and ADP payments are issued every four weeks and consist of two components: daily living and mobility. The amount received depends on how severely the claimant's condition impacts their life. An assessment determines the level of financial support, with rates regularly reviewed to ensure appropriateness.
The weekly payment rates are as follows:
- Daily Living Component: Standard rate £73.90, Enhanced rate £110.40
- Mobility Component: Standard rate £29.20, Enhanced rate £77.05
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for PIP or ADP, individuals must have a health condition or disability that causes difficulties with daily living or mobility, or both, for at least three months, with an expectation that these difficulties will continue for at least nine months. Applicants usually need to have lived in the UK for at least two of the last three years and be in the country at the time of application.
Upon reaching State Pension age, new claims for PIP, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or ADP cannot be submitted. However, those already receiving these benefits will continue to do so until their award period ends, at which point it will be reviewed normally. Individuals over State Pension age with a health condition may also be eligible for Attendance Allowance, worth either £73.90 or £110.40 weekly.
For those not yet at State Pension age but living with a health condition, disability, or long-term illness, applying for PIP or ADP is recommended. The DWP or Social Security Scotland evaluates how challenging daily living and mobility activities are, considering safety, time taken, frequency of impact, and need for assistance.
