Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
A benefit for adults aged 16 to 64 with long-term physical or mental health conditions. PIP helps with the extra costs of living with a disability — it is not means-tested.
Key Facts
- For adults aged 16–64 (over-65s claim Attendance Allowance instead)
- Daily Living component: standard (£72.65) or enhanced (£108.55) per week
- Mobility component: standard (£28.70) or enhanced (£75.75) per week
- Not means-tested and not taxable
- Does not depend on National Insurance contributions
- Awarded after a face-to-face or phone/video assessment
What Does PIP Cover?
PIP has two components: the Daily Living component and the Mobility component. You can receive either or both. The Daily Living component is for help with everyday activities — preparing food, eating, washing, dressing, managing medication, making decisions and communicating. The Mobility component is for difficulties walking or planning and following journeys.
The PIP Assessment
Unlike Attendance Allowance, PIP involves a formal assessment — usually a phone, video or face-to-face consultation with a health professional from Capita or Atos. They will ask about your daily activities and how your condition affects you. The assessment uses a points system across 12 activities.
Always describe how you are on your worst days. Bring a carer or family member if you can. If you have supporting evidence from your GP, specialist or occupational therapist, submit it before or at the assessment.
If You Are Refused
Many PIP claims are initially refused or given a lower rate than deserved. You have the right to ask for a mandatory reconsideration within one month of the decision, and if that fails, to appeal to an independent tribunal. The majority of people who go to tribunal win their case. Always challenge a decision you think is wrong — get help from Citizens Advice or Welfare Rights.