The UK government has announced a rise in Personal Independence Payment (PIP) benefits starting April 2024. This change comes after the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) adjusted payments based on the 6.7% inflation rate recorded in September 2023. The purpose of this increase is to make sure that people with serious health problems or disabilities get the help they need to cover daily living costs.
Those who receive the highest level of PIP support can now get up to £184.30 per week, which totals £9,582.60 per year. This boost offers much-needed financial relief to individuals who face physical or mental challenges in their day-to-day life. It helps them pay for extra costs such as mobility aids, home care, or medical needs.
This is a good time to apply for PIP, especially for those with long-term illnesses or disabilities. The higher payment rate means better financial help and improved access to support services. If you think you may qualify, it’s important to learn about the eligibility rules and the list of health conditions that might make you eligible.
What Is PIP and Who Should Consider It?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit provided by the DWP for people who have long-lasting physical or mental health issues. It is not based on income or savings, and instead, is awarded depending on how much a person’s condition affects their ability to live independently and move around.
The money from PIP is meant to cover extra costs like medical treatments, personal care, transportation, and special equipment. It is available to individuals aged 16 to State Pension age who live in the UK and have had health problems for at least three months, with the expectation that these problems will continue for nine more months.
Eligibility: Who Can Apply for PIP?
To qualify for PIP, you must meet these key requirements:
- Have a long-term physical or mental condition that affects daily life or movement.
- Face these difficulties for at least 3 months, and they are expected to continue for at least 9 more months.
- Be between 16 and State Pension age.
- Have lived in the UK for 2 of the last 3 years, and currently be living in the country.
Applicants will need to complete a form, and most will also go through a medical assessment to determine how much help they need.
Updated PIP Payment Rates for 2024
PIP is made up of two parts:
- Daily Living Component – for help with everyday tasks.
- Mobility Component – for help with getting around.
Each part has two levels of payment – Standard and Enhanced. If someone qualifies for the enhanced rate in both parts, they will receive £184.30 per week, which equals £798.53 monthly and £9,582.60 yearly.
25 Common Medical Conditions That Often Qualify for PIP
PIP is awarded based on how much a condition affects your daily life, not just the name of the illness. However, here are 25 medical conditions that often qualify due to their impact:
Breathing-Related Conditions:
- Sleep Apnoea
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- Chronic Bronchitis
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Emphysema
- Empyema
- Bronchiectasis
- Asthma
- Asbestosis
Inflammatory Lung Diseases:
- Extrinsic Allergic Alveolitis
- Fibrosing Alveolitis
- Sarcoidosis
- Silicosis
- Granulomatous Lung Disease
- Other Pulmonary Fibrosis Types
- Pneumoconiosis
Other Lung Disorders:
- Pleura Disorders
- Pleural Effusion
- Pneumothorax
- Pulmonary Embolism
- Pneumonia
Organ Transplant:
- Lung Transplant
- Heart and Lung Transplant
Additional Respiratory Conditions:
- Chronic Chest Infections
- Lung Scarring
These conditions can cause serious breathing issues and limit how much a person can move or care for themselves. That’s why many people with these conditions qualify for PIP support.
How the Assessment Process Works
When you apply for PIP, the DWP needs to understand how your condition affects your life. The process includes:
- Filling out a detailed application form.
- Attending an assessment with a healthcare professional – this may be done in person, by phone, or video call.
- The assessor looks at your ability to carry out daily tasks like washing, cooking, managing medicine, or walking.
- Based on this, the DWP will decide your payment level.
- Your case may be reviewed regularly to ensure you still qualify.
Why You Should Apply for PIP Right Now
Now is the perfect time to submit a claim if you think you qualify. Here’s why:
- Bigger Payments: The April 2024 increase means more money each week or month.
- Reliable Support: PIP offers long-term help for people with lasting conditions.
- Better Quality of Life: The money can pay for medical care, mobility aids, or home support.
This rise in PIP payments shows the government’s effort to support people who live with serious health conditions. It helps them stay more independent, safer, and able to manage daily life with fewer struggles.