PIP: Britons could receive payment for ‘hidden conditions’ – eligibility explained

Martin Lewis discusses universal credit help for those on PIP

PIP, formally known as Personal Independence Payments, is designed to help individuals who have a long-term health condition or those who are living with a disability. The payment, issued by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can help people with some additional costs which arise on a day-to-day basis. The amount of PIP a person can receive will vary according to their personal circumstances, as the payment is about how a person’s condition affects them, rather than the condition itself.

However, those in receipt of PIP can expect to receive anywhere between £23.60 and £151.40 per week on current rates.

Some may believe PIP is intended for those with visually obvious health conditions or disabilities.

However, this is not the case, and some with “hidden” conditions or disabilities may also stand to benefit from a payment.

Hidden disabilities and conditions are those which might not be visible at first glance, but can still have a major impact on a person’s life.

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For instance, these can include conditions such as cystic fibrosis, stress, anxiety, depression or chronic pain.

PIP is based on the way a person’s condition affects them, and so if a payment is deemed necessary, a person is likely to receive it.

If a person has daily living needs, or help to move around, PIP is probably suitable for them.

People claiming PIP can expect to be assessed by a health professional to determine the level of help they can receive.

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They will also be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure they are receiving the right level of support.

PIP is made available to Britons whether they are working or not, and is not a means-tested benefit.

To claim, a person must be aged 16 or over, and usually under state pension age, resident in England, Scotland or Wales for at least two of the last three years.

They are also required to have a disability or health condition which has affected them for at least three months, and expect the problems to continue for at least nine months.

PIP is a tax-free payment split into two separate parts – mobility and daily living.

Once again, whether a person receives one or both is dependent on how severely their condition affects them.

The daily living part of PIP is intended to help those who need help with activities such as reading and communicating, engaging with others, and preparing or eating food.

The mobility element, however, is designed to assist those who need help going out, or moving around the home. 

At present, the weekly rate for daily living stands at either £59.70 or £89.15.

The rate for the mobility element of PIP is either £23.60 or £62.25 per week. 

PIP can be claimed by Britons by calling the Department for Work and Pensions either via telephone or textphone.

But before a person makes this call, they will need certain details to hand to support their claim.

These include contact details, date of birth, National Insurance number, and details of a person’s doctor or health worker.

Britons may also be able to claim by post, with a form sent out to them with relevant information – however, this may delay the decision on a claim. 

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