People claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) may be invited to a reassessment to verify continued entitlement, typically when an award expires or a change in circumstances is reported. PIP awards are not permanent and come with a set review period ranging from nine months to ten years for a 'light touch' review, depending on the likelihood of change. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) includes the review date on the award letter.
How PIP Assessments Are Conducted
Latest DWP data shows the majority of PIP assessments are conducted remotely by phone or video call. In September last year, 68,000 (77.5%) assessments were by phone, 12,000 (13.8%) were paper-based, 4,400 (5%) in person, and 3,300 (3.8%) by video call. However, under new welfare reforms, the number of face-to-face assessments is set to increase.
Over 4 million people across England and Wales now receive PIP payments of between £30.30 and £194.60 each week. Some 504,710 Scots receive Adult Disability Payment, which has replaced PIP in Scotland.
Understanding the Assessment Purpose
The PIP assessment is an opportunity to discuss how your condition affects you, not a diagnosis or medical examination. A health professional will carry out the assessment, write a report, and send it to the DWP decision maker. If you are waiting for a review, keep a copy of your PIP evidence form handy for phone, video, or face-to-face assessments.
Preparing to Talk About Your Condition
According to Citizens Advice, you should be ready to discuss how your condition affects you even if you have already detailed it on your PIP2 form. Focus on:
- Difficulties you have with tasks, such as walking up steps or remembering appointments
- How your condition affects you day to day
- What a bad day looks like, for example: 'On a bad day, I can’t walk at all because my leg hurts so much'
What Assessors Observe
Assessors use your claim form and draw opinions from what you say and do. For example, if you say you came by bus without clarification, they may note you can travel alone on public transport. During face-to-face assessments, you may be asked to perform physical tasks. Do not do things you cannot normally do—if you are uncomfortable, say so.
During telephone assessments, you may be asked to describe simple tasks like preparing food, washing, dressing, or moving outside. Take your time and break down each step to show how your condition affects you.
Tips for the Assessment
- Do not let the assessor rush you
- Avoid simple 'yes' or 'no' answers—explain how tasks affect you and the impact of repeating them
- You can have someone with you for support; put the phone on loudspeaker and inform the assessor
Attending a Face-to-Face Assessment
You can bring someone aged 16 or over, such as a friend, relative, or carer, who can take part in discussions and make notes. Before the assessment, check with your provider that the centre meets your needs. Ask about:
- Access to stairs or lifts for wheelchairs
- Room size if you have anxiety in enclosed spaces
- An interpreter or signer (request at least two working days before)
- Same-gender assessor if important
- Audio recording permission (request three days before)
If the venue is more than 90 minutes away by public transport and you have difficulty travelling, you may be offered an alternative location or home visit. Refer to GOV.UK guidance for travel restrictions in Scotland, England, and Wales.
