Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit for people in the UK who need help with daily living or getting around due to a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition. It's tax-free, not means-tested, and you can claim it whether you’re in or out of work.
📌 What Is PIP For?
PIP is designed to help with the extra costs that come with living with a health condition or disability. It’s not based on your diagnosis — it’s based on how your condition affects your life.
💷 How Much Can You Get?
PIP has two parts, and you can qualify for one or both:
- Daily Living Component – if you need help with activities like washing, dressing, or preparing food
- Mobility Component – if you need help moving around or planning journeys
Each component has a standard and an enhanced rate. The amount depends on how many points you score during your assessment.
✅ Who Can Apply?
To qualify for PIP, you must:
- Be aged 16 or over
- Be under State Pension age when you apply
- Have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability
- Have had difficulties for at least 3 months and expect them to last at least 9 months
- Live in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland (Scotland has Adult Disability Payment)
🔄 PIP Replaces DLA (Disability Living Allowance)
PIP has replaced DLA for people aged 16 and over. If you’re still on DLA, you’ll be invited to apply for PIP instead.
❌ What PIP Is Not
PIP is not the same as:
- Universal Credit (for general living costs)
- ESA (for people who can't work)
- Attendance Allowance (for people over State Pension age)
🔗 Related Articles
ℹ️ Note: This page is a plain-English guide to PIP. For full details or to apply, visit GOV.UK.
