Step by step
Getting PIP (Personal Independence Payment)
PIP helps with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability. It is not means-tested and you can get it whether you work or not. This guide covers every step from your first phone call to your assessment.
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Check if you might be eligible
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is for people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability that affects their daily living or mobility. The condition must have affected you for at least three months and is expected to continue for at least nine more months. PIP is not means-tested — your income and savings do not affect the amount you can get.
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Call DWP to start your claim
You start a PIP claim by phone — you cannot apply online. Call the PIP new claims line on 0800 917 2222 (free, Monday to Friday 9am–5pm). You will be asked for your contact details, National Insurance number, GP surgery details, bank account number and details of your condition. You can call on behalf of someone else with their permission.
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Fill in the PIP2 "How your disability affects you" form
DWP will send you a PIP2 form within two weeks of your call. This is the most important part of your claim. It asks you to describe how your condition affects you on your worst days, not just an average day. Be specific and give real examples. Do not understate difficulties — the form is about functional ability, not the diagnosis itself. You have one month to return it.
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Send supporting medical evidence
You do not have to send medical evidence, but it can strengthen your claim. Useful documents include letters from your GP, consultant or specialist; care plans; occupational therapy reports; and prescription records. Ask your doctor or social worker to write a supporting letter that describes how your condition affects your daily life. Keep copies of everything you send.
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Attend (or prepare for) your functional assessment
Most claimants are called to a face-to-face, telephone or video assessment carried out by a health professional working for the Assessment Provider (Capita or Atos/Maximus). The assessor does not decide your award — they write a report for DWP. You can bring someone with you for support. If you need adjustments (for example, a home visit), request them when booking your appointment.
Common questions about PIP
How long does a PIP claim take?
DWP aims to make a decision within 12 weeks of receiving your PIP2 form. In practice, many claims take longer — sometimes four to six months. You can request a benefit review if your condition changes while you are waiting.
What are the 2026/27 PIP rates?
From April 2026: Daily Living component — Enhanced rate £108.55/week, Standard rate £72.65/week. Mobility component — Enhanced rate £75.75/week, Standard rate £28.70/week. PIP is paid every four weeks, tax-free.
Can I get PIP if I work?
Yes. PIP is not affected by employment status, income or savings. It is based entirely on how your condition affects your ability to carry out daily living and mobility activities.
What happens if my PIP claim is refused?
You can ask DWP to look at their decision again — this is called a Mandatory Reconsideration. You must do this within one month of receiving your decision letter. If you are still unhappy after reconsideration, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. Statistics show around half of PIP appeals succeed.
Does the PIP review mean I will lose my award?
DWP reviews PIP awards periodically to check your circumstances have not changed. A review does not mean your award will be reduced or stopped. If your condition has worsened, a review is also an opportunity to be moved to a higher rate. Continue claiming until DWP contacts you.