How to Apply for PIP (Personal Independence Payment) in the UK

If you're living with a long-term health condition or disability that affects your daily life, you might be entitled to extra financial help through PIP.

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What Is PIP?

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit to help with the extra costs of living with a health condition or disability. You can receive it whether you’re working or not, and it’s not means-tested, which means your income or savings don’t affect it.

Who Can Apply for PIP?

You may be eligible if:

 

○You're aged 16 to State Pension age (older people may need Attendance Allowance instead)

○You have a long-term physical or mental health condition

○You have difficulty with:

Daily tasks (like washing, dressing, eating)

Getting around (mobility issues)

 

These difficulties must have lasted at least 3 months and are expected to continue for at least 9 more months

Example conditions include arthritis, chronic pain, heart problems, breathing issues, or cognitive impairments.

How to Apply for PIP

Step 1: Call to Start Your Claim

Call the PIP new claims phone line:

-0800 917 2222

Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm

They’ll ask for:

○ Your contact details

○ National Insurance number

○ Bank details

○ GP or health professional info

You can also ask someone to call on your behalf.

Step 2: Fill Out the "How Your Disability Affects You" Form

You’ll receive a form by post. Take your time filling it in. It asks about:

 

○ How your condition affects daily activities (washing, cooking, taking medicine)

○ How far you can walk

○ Any help you need from others

 

Step 3: Send It Back with Supporting Evidence

Include copies of:

○ Medical letters or reports

○ Prescription lists

○ Care plans

○ Statements from carers or family

○ Send it back to the address provided on the form.

 

Step 4: Attend a Health Assessment (if asked)

You may be invited to a face-to-face, telephone or video assessment.
 

A healthcare professional will talk to you about how your condition affects your life.

Don’t be nervous — they just want to understand your daily challenges.

How Long Does It Take?

Processing can take up to 12 weeks. If an assessment is needed, it might take a little longer. If approved, your badge will be posted to you.

What Does PIP Pay?

PIP is made up of two parts:

 

1.Daily Living Component – help with daily tasks

2.Mobility Component – help with moving around

 

Each has a standard rate and an enhanced rate, depending on how much support you need.

As of 2025, you could receive up to £184 per week if you qualify for both enhanced rates.

 

Tips to Remember

● Be honest and detailed

● Use extra sheets if needed

● Ask someone to help you if needed

How Will I Get Paid?

 Paid every 4 weeks into your bank account

 

 Payments are tax-free

 

 Not affected by savings or work status

What If I’m Over State Pension Age?

If you're already over State Pension age, you usually can't apply for PIP.
 

Instead, look into Attendance Allowance, which helps with similar needs.

Final Thought

Don’t miss out on financial help if you’re struggling. PIP is there to support you — and the application, though detailed, is manageable with the right help

Visit the official website: gov.uk/pip

Frequently Asked Questions