A HUGE change to PIP is coming for thousands of first-time claimants in 2024.
It comes after the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) began trialling the use of online applications for new personal independence payments (PIP) claims.
AlamyThe DWP will invite all PIP applicants to apply for the benefit online in 2024[/caption]
Right now, the service is being offered to 60 new claimants per day who call the PIP helpline to apply for the benefit.
But Tom Pursglove, minister for disabled people and work and health, recently told MPs during a debate around PIP assessment processes that the online application service will become available for all in 2024.
He said: “The online service is optional; it is a voluntary alternative to the existing method for claiming PIP.
“Claimants who are unable to use an online service, or do not want to, will still be able to make a claim through existing routes.
“We aim to make the online service available across England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2024 for those who choose to use it.”
New PIP claims are currently taking 13 weeks from initial submission to award decision letters being sent out.
But it’s hoped that when online applications open for all the application journey could reduce decision-making time and shorten the amount of time it takes for claimants to hear back.
Personal Independence Payments (PIP) is a disability benefit that is given to those with long-term mental or physical health problems or disabilities.
Nearly three million claimants are entitled to PIP in England and Wales.
Most households that think they’re eligible for PIP are encouraged to apply for PIP now by calling the claim helpline on 0800 917 2222.
You’ll then be sent a form that asks about your condition and you’ll have to return this in the post.
Are there other PIP changes to look out for?
The DWP started introducing a brand new “light-touch” PIP review in August.
The new simplified form is used to assess a long-term claimant’s eligibility for the benefit.
PIP was first introduced back in 2013 and awards typically last between nine months and 10 years.
Nearly three million claimants are entitled to PIP in England and Wales.
Those who originally qualified for a 10-year PIP award back in 2013 are now ready to have their claims reviewed.
But unlike the usual 16-page award review form that’s issued to those with shorter-term PIP awards, thousands of those with 10-year awards will only need to complete shorter six page form.
The DWP also told The Sun that in most cases it does not expect that an assessment with a healthcare professional will be required either.
But claimants on 10-year awards aren’t the only PIP recipients to take part in the “light touch” process.
Most people receiving PIP that reach the State Pension age end up moving onto ongoing awards, and will soon start receiving these “light touch” review forms too, according to the DWP.
Hundreds of claimants should look out for these new forms in the post over the coming months to ensure that they don’t risk having their payments cut.
Thousands more will be handed the simpler review when their awards come up for renewal too over the coming year.
We’ve previously explained how PIP claims are reviewed depending on your circumstances.
What is PIP?
Millions suffering from long-term health conditions or disabilities get extra cash help through personal independence payments (PIP).
You can get PIP even if you’re working, have savings or are getting most other benefits.
The payments can be worth up to £172.75 a week, so if you don’t claim it already, check to see if you’re eligible.
PIP is available to those aged 16 or over but no fresh claims can be made if you’ve reached the State Pension age.
The current state pension age is 66 but this is set to rise to 68.
Crucially, you must also have a health condition or disability where you either have had difficulties with daily living or getting around (or both) for three months, and you expect these difficulties to continue for at least nine months (unless you’re terminally ill with less than 12 months to live).
Difficulties with daily living can include:
Preparing or eating foodWashing, bathing and using the toiletDressing and undressingReading and communicatingManaging your medicines or treatmentsMaking decisions about moneyEngaging with other people
You can claim PIP at the same time as other benefits, except the armed forces independence payment.
If you receive constant attendance allowance you will receive less of the daily living part of PIP.
If you get war pensioners‘ mobility supplement you will not get the mobility part of PIP.