PIP in 2026: What's Changing and What You Need to Know

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is one of the UK's most important disability benefits — worth up to £184.30 per week for those who qualify at both enhanced rates. It is non-means-tested, paid regardless of income or savings, and available to people aged 16 to State Pension age. Here is what claimants need to know in 2026.

Current PIP Rates (2025/26)

PIP consists of two components — Daily Living and Mobility — each paid at a standard or enhanced rate:

Maximum combined award (both enhanced): £184.30 per week — approximately £9,584 per year.

The PIP Reform Process

The government has been consulting on changes to PIP since 2024. The main proposals centred on the Daily Living component — specifically Activity 11 (managing therapy or monitoring a health condition) and the broader question of whether eligibility criteria should be tightened.

The consultation closed in early 2025. As of May 2026, formal legislative changes have not been enacted. However, the government has signalled an intention to reform the assessment framework over the coming years, with changes likely to be phased in gradually rather than applied to existing claimants immediately.

What this means for existing claimants: Your current award is not automatically changing. You do not need to do anything different right now. Continue collecting your PIP as normal. If and when changes affect your award, you will receive formal written notification and have the right to challenge any decision.

If You Receive a Review Letter

PIP awards are reviewed periodically — typically every 2, 3, or 10 years (your award letter says when). Receiving a review letter is normal and does not mean your award will be reduced. However, you should take it seriously:

• Do not ignore it. Missing the deadline to return the form can result in your PIP stopping.
• Seek advice immediately. Contact Citizens Advice (0808 223 1133) as soon as you receive the review form. They can help you complete it and maximise your chances of retaining your award.
• Describe your worst days — same principle as the original claim. If your condition fluctuates, describe the worst end of the range.
• Gather evidence. Letters from your GP, consultant, occupational therapist or other healthcare professionals significantly strengthen your review.
• You can take someone with you to any assessment — a family member, friend or advocate. They can take notes, provide support, and add information you may forget under pressure.
• Request the assessor's report. After your assessment, you can request a copy of the assessor's report. Reading it helps you understand any discrepancies.

If PIP Is Reduced or Stopped

If the DWP reduces or stops your PIP following a review, you have a right to challenge the decision. The process is:

1. 1

   Mandatory Reconsideration

   You must request a Mandatory Reconsideration within one month of the date on the decision letter. Do this in writing. Set out clearly why you disagree and include any additional evidence. Keep a copy of everything.

2. 2

   Appeal to a Tribunal

   If the reconsideration upholds the original decision, you can appeal to an independent Social Security and Child Support Tribunal. Appeals are free and you can be represented. Historically, over 70% of PIP appeals that reach tribunal are decided in the claimant's favour.

PIP and Attendance Allowance

If you are over State Pension age (currently 66), you cannot claim PIP for the first time — you would claim Attendance Allowance instead. However, if you were already receiving PIP when you reached State Pension age, you can continue to receive it. See our Attendance Allowance guide and PIP guide for full details.

Summary: What to Do Now

• If you receive PIP and have not been contacted about a review — continue as normal.
• If you receive a review form — seek help from Citizens Advice before completing it.
• If your PIP is reduced or stopped — request Mandatory Reconsideration within one month.
• If Mandatory Reconsideration fails — appeal to tribunal. Most people who appeal win.
• If you think you may be entitled to PIP but have not claimed — see our PIP guide.