Starting from April 2024, the UK Government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is increasing Personal Independence Payment (PIP) benefits. This update is connected to the 6.7% inflation rate recorded in September 2023. The higher payments aim to better support people who have long-term health conditions or disabilities that make everyday activities difficult.
The top rate of PIP will now be £184.30 per week, meaning some claimants can receive up to £9,582.60 each year. This financial help is a major boost for individuals who need extra support for their health needs, daily living, and mobility. The change also allows claimants to afford better healthcare, personal care, and equipment to live more comfortably and independently.
For people struggling with serious medical conditions, now is the best time to apply for PIP. The process is straightforward, and the enhanced payments mean more security and help for those who need it most. This guide explains everything you need to know about PIP, who can apply, the new payment rates, and the 25 conditions that may make you eligible.
Understanding Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit given by the DWP to people who have difficulties with daily activities or moving around because of long-term physical or mental health conditions. PIP is not based on income or savings, but on how a person’s condition affects their daily life.
The money received through PIP is meant to help with the extra costs of living with a disability. This can include help with buying mobility aids, adjusting homes, or paying for personal care support. PIP gives people more independence and helps them manage their condition more easily.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for PIP?
To apply for PIP, you must meet certain conditions:
- You must have a physical or mental health problem that makes daily living or getting around difficult.
- Your condition must have affected you for at least three months and is expected to last at least nine more months.
- You must be between 16 years old and the State Pension age.
- You must have lived in the UK for at least two of the last three years and be living in the country when you apply.
If you meet these rules, you can apply for PIP, complete an assessment, and if successful, get financial help based on the seriousness of your situation.
New PIP Payment Rates from April 2024
PIP payments are split into two parts:
- Daily Living Component: for people who need help with daily tasks.
- Mobility Component: for people who need help moving around.
Each part has two levels — Standard and Enhanced — depending on how much help you need.
If you qualify for the enhanced rate for both parts, you will get £184.30 every week. Over a year, this adds up to £9,582.60.
25 Medical Conditions That Often Qualify for PIP
While PIP awards are based on how your condition affects you, the following 25 health conditions commonly qualify because they usually cause serious difficulties:
Respiratory and Lung Problems
- Sleep Apnoea (Obstructive)
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Chronic Bronchitis
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Emphysema
- Empyema
- Bronchiectasis
- Asthma
- Asbestosis
Lung Conditions Involving Fibrosis and Inflammation
- Extrinsic Allergic Alveolitis
- Fibrosing Alveolitis
- Sarcoidosis
- Silicosis
- Granulomatous Lung Disease
- Pulmonary Fibrosis (Other types)
- Pneumoconiosis
Pleural and Pulmonary Disorders
- Disorders of the Pleura
- Pleural Effusion
- Pneumothorax
- Pulmonary Embolus
- Pneumonia
Organ Transplant Cases
- Lung Transplant
- Heart and Lung Transplant
These conditions can cause severe breathing problems, difficulties with mobility, and often require constant treatment — making claimants likely to qualify for PIP support.
How the PIP Assessment Works
When you apply for PIP, you need to go through an assessment process:
- First, fill out a detailed form explaining how your health condition affects your daily activities.
- Next, you might have a face-to-face meeting, a phone call, or a video call with a healthcare professional.
- During the assessment, they will check how you manage daily tasks like cooking, bathing, dressing, and moving around.
- Based on this assessment, the DWP will decide if you qualify for PIP and at what rate (Standard or Enhanced).
- The DWP may also review your claim from time to time to make sure your condition and needs are properly supported.
Why It’s Smart to Apply for PIP Right Now
There are important reasons why you should apply for PIP as soon as possible:
- Higher Payments: With the new increased rates, you can get more financial help.
- Ongoing Help: PIP is a long-term benefit for people with lasting health problems.
- Better Support: More money can help cover medical costs, transport, and personal care.
Applying now means you can lock in the higher payments and start receiving much-needed support without delay.