Living with a long-term illness can make daily life harder. Simple activities like walking, getting dressed, or cooking can become difficult. On top of this, many people also face financial problems because they cannot work or need help from others. To support such individuals, the UK government provides a benefit called Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
PIP is meant for people who have trouble with daily tasks or getting around due to a health condition or disability. It is managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The money helps with extra costs and is given monthly, with some people getting as much as £737. This benefit is especially important for people with muscle and joint conditions, known as musculoskeletal disorders.
Recently, new government plans may change who gets this support in the future. The aim is to help more people find jobs if they are able to work, but it might also mean stricter rules for getting PIP. This article will explain everything: who can apply, how much money you can receive, what conditions are accepted, and how to start your claim.
Understanding Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
PIP is a financial benefit given to people aged 16 to the State Pension age who have a long-term illness or disability. The amount you receive depends on how your condition affects your daily life, not just the name of your illness.
There are two parts to PIP:
- Daily Living Part – for help with things like eating, bathing, and dressing.
- Mobility Part – for people who find it hard to walk or move around.
Each part can be paid at either a standard or enhanced rate. If someone gets the enhanced rate for both parts, they can receive up to £737.20 each month.
Who Can Apply for PIP?
You can apply for PIP if:
- You are between 16 years old and the State Pension age.
- You live in England, Scotland, or Wales.
- You have a condition that affects daily life or movement.
- Your health problem is expected to last 12 months or more.
You do not need a specific diagnosis to apply. What matters most is how your condition affects your everyday life.
Upcoming Changes to Benefit Rules
The government has shared plans to change how disability benefits are given. Some of these changes include:
- Lower Universal Credit amounts for new applicants.
- Stricter tests for who qualifies for PIP.
- People under age 22 could get less money (around £70 per week in some cases).
These changes aim to help more people with disabilities find work. However, some worry it may reduce financial help for those who truly need it.
How Much Can You Get from PIP? (2025 Rates)
Here’s a breakdown of how much PIP pays:
| Component | Weekly Rate | Monthly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living (Standard) | £72.65 | £290.60 |
| Daily Living (Enhanced) | £108.55 | £434.20 |
| Mobility (Standard) | £28.70 | £114.80 |
| Mobility (Enhanced) | £75.75 | £303.00 |
| Maximum Total | £184.30 | £737.20 |
Payments are made every four weeks and reviewed yearly.
How Many People Get This Benefit?
As of the latest data from DWP:
- Over 3.6 million people in the UK are receiving PIP.
- More than 1.1 million of these are for musculoskeletal problems (like arthritis or chronic pain).
This shows how common these issues are and how important PIP is for many families.
Health Conditions That Qualify for PIP
The DWP recognizes over 85 conditions that may make someone eligible for PIP. These fall into different groups:
Muscle and Joint Problems
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic Pain Syndrome
- Osteoarthritis
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Inflammatory Conditions
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Lupus
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Gout
Bone and Joint Disorders
- Osteoporosis
- Paget’s Disease
- Osteomalacia
Genetic and Developmental Disorders
- Marfan Syndrome
- Rickets
- Hypermobility Syndrome
Spinal and Back Issues
- Scoliosis
- Spinal Stenosis
- Herniated Discs
Neck and Upper Body Conditions
- Cervical Spondylosis
- Whiplash
- Rotator Cuff Injury
- Frozen Shoulder
Arm and Hand Disorders
- Tennis Elbow
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Dupuytren’s Contracture
Hip, Knee, and Foot Conditions
- Hip Osteoarthritis
- Bursitis
- Club Foot
- Chondromalacia Patella
Injuries and Fracture Issues
- Past Fractures
- Dislocations
- Injury-related pain and conditions
Amputations
- Full or partial limb amputations (upper or lower limbs)
How to Apply for PIP
To apply for PIP, follow these steps:
- Call the PIP new claims line: 0800 917 2222
- You may also receive a form by post or be invited to apply online, depending on where you live.
- Fill out the form with clear details on how your condition affects you.
- Send medical documents (doctor’s notes, test results, etc.).
- Attend a health assessment, if required.
Important Things to Remember Before Applying
- You must be between 16 and State Pension age.
- You don’t need to stop working to apply.
- You don’t need a specific diagnosis—just proof of how it affects your life.
- PIP is tax-free and not based on income.
- Getting PIP will not affect other benefits.
If you’re living with a long-term health problem, PIP could be the support you need. Make sure to check if your condition qualifies and apply as soon as possible to get the help you deserve.