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How-to · Step-by-step

How to claim PIP in the UK

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In short. Call 0800 917 2222 to start a PIP claim (or apply online if your postcode allows), complete ‘How your disability affects you’ within a month, attend the assessment if invited, then challenge the decision within one month if you disagree.

PIP is awarded on what you cannot do safely, repeatedly, to an acceptable standard and in a reasonable time — not the diagnosis name. Scotland uses Adult Disability Payment. This is not a DWP application form.

Last reviewed:

·Estimated time: 2 hours·Cost: £0 to claim

What you'll need

  • National Insurance number
  • Bank or building society details
  • GP or consultant contact details
  • Dates in hospital, a care home or abroad if asked

The steps

  1. 01

    Check you are in the right nation and age group

    PIP is for people aged 16 to State Pension age in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Under 16s claim DLA or Child Disability Payment. Scotland adults claim Adult Disability Payment. Special rules apply if you are nearing the end of life.

    Official link →

  2. 02

    Start the claim

    Call the PIP new claims line 0800 917 2222, Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, or check GOV.UK for a full online claim in your postcode. The date you start is usually your claim date — backdating does not run earlier. Textphone and Relay UK options are on GOV.UK. You can also write to Freepost DWP PIP 1.

    Official link →

  3. 03

    Complete ‘How your disability affects you’

    You usually have one month. Describe a typical hard week with timed examples. An activity only counts if you cannot do it safely, repeatedly, to an acceptable standard and in a reasonable time on most days. Attach clinic letters if you have them. Keep a copy. Rates and descriptors: PIP explained.

  4. 04

    Attend the assessment if invited

    Assessments can be phone, video or face-to-face. You can ask for a reasonable adjustment and take notes or a companion. Answer about most days, not your best day. DWP uses the report plus your form to award points.

  5. 05

    Read the decision and challenge it if it is wrong

    Ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration within one month. Explain which descriptors you meet and add evidence. If that fails, appeal to the First-tier Tribunal. Citizens Advice can help with the form.

    Official link →

Common pitfalls

  • Missing the one-month questionnaire or reconsideration deadline
  • Listing diagnoses without daily examples
  • Starting a PIP claim from Scotland — use Adult Disability Payment
  • Assuming enhanced mobility automatically means a Blue Badge — check the score sheet

FAQ

Can I claim PIP if I work?
Yes. PIP is not means-tested. Tell DWP about long hospital or care-home stays because payment rules change.
What if I cannot use the phone?
Someone can call with you. GOV.UK lists textphone, Relay UK and British Sign Language video options, and a postal start to Freepost DWP PIP 1.
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