Eligibility Checklist for Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Check whether you are likely to qualify for PIP, the benefit for adults aged 16–64 with a long-term health condition or disability.
Overview
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a non-means-tested, non-taxable benefit for people aged 16–64 who need help with daily living activities or mobility because of a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability. It is assessed against 12 daily living activities and 2 mobility activities. The DWP contracts out the assessments to commercial providers (currently Capita and Atos/Maximus). The assessment uses descriptors and points (Social Security (Personal Independence Payment) Regulations 2013).
Basic Conditions
You are aged 16–64 (once in payment it can continue past 65 if in payment before that age)(Essential)
You are habitually resident in Great Britain and satisfy immigration conditions(Essential)
You have had your disability or health condition for at least 3 months and expect it to continue for at least 9 more months (the qualifying period)(Essential)
The qualifying period does not apply to terminally ill claimants (Special Rules)
Daily Living Activities
You score at least 8 points on the daily living activities (for the standard rate) or 12 points (enhanced rate)(Essential)
Activities include: preparing food, eating, managing therapy, washing/bathing, managing toilet needs, dressing, communicating, reading, managing money, mixing socially
You have difficulty with activities 'reliably' — meaning safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly, and in a reasonable time(Essential)
The reliability criteria are key — the DWP must consider what happens on your worst days, not just your best
Mobility Activities
You score at least 8 points on mobility (standard) or 12 points (enhanced) — activities are planning/following a journey, and moving around
Enhanced rate mobility PIP entitles you to a Motability vehicle