PIP Eligibility Checker UK 2025 — Personal Independence Payment Guide
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for working-age adults and is available to people aged 16 to State Pension age with a long-term disability or health condition. PIP is not means-tested — your income and savings do not affect eligibility. Use our free checker to see if you may qualify.
This is a guide only. PIP is assessed by DWP using a detailed functional assessment and points system. Call DWP on 0800 917 2222 to start a claim. Describe how your condition affects you on your worst days.
What Is PIP and How Does It Work?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a non-means-tested government benefit for people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability that affects their daily living or ability to get around. PIP was introduced by the Welfare Reform Act 2012 and replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for working-age claimants. It is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
PIP Payment Rates 2025
| Component | Level | Weekly Rate | Monthly (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily living | Standard | £72.65 | £315 |
| Daily living | Enhanced | £108.55 | £471 |
| Mobility | Standard | £28.70 | £125 |
| Mobility | Enhanced | £75.75 | £329 |
| Maximum total (both enhanced) | £184.30/week | £799/month | |
The PIP Points Assessment System
PIP is awarded based on points scored across 10 daily living activities and 2 mobility activities. A health professional contracted by DWP (Capita or Atos) assesses how your condition affects your ability to carry out each activity.
- Standard rate: 8–11 points in that component
- Enhanced rate: 12 or more points in that component
The 10 daily living activities include: preparing food, taking nutrition, managing therapy, washing and bathing, managing toilet needs, dressing and undressing, communicating verbally, reading and understanding signs, engaging with others, and making budgeting decisions.
The 2 mobility activities are: planning and following journeys, and moving around (physical mobility).
How to Apply for PIP — Step by Step
- Call DWP on 0800 917 2222 to start a claim. You will be asked some initial questions to check eligibility. A PIP2 form ("How your disability affects you") will be sent to you.
- Complete the PIP2 form carefully. You have 1 month to return it. Describe how your condition affects you on your worst days, not your average or best days. Include all symptoms and impact.
- Functional assessment — A health professional will contact you for an assessment, which can be face-to-face, telephone, or video. Provide as much evidence as possible (GP letters, hospital reports, specialist assessments).
- Decision letter — DWP writes to you with their decision. If successful, PIP is paid every 4 weeks directly into your bank account.
- If refused or lower rate awarded — Request mandatory reconsideration within 1 month. Then appeal to the First-tier Tribunal if reconsideration fails.
What Conditions Qualify for PIP?
PIP is not diagnosis-based — it is based on the functional impact of your condition. Both physical and mental health conditions qualify. Common conditions for which people receive PIP include:
- Musculoskeletal conditions — arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia
- Neurological conditions — MS, Parkinson's, epilepsy, stroke
- Mental health conditions — severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia
- Respiratory — COPD, severe asthma
- Cancer and terminal illness (special rules apply for fast-track awards)
- Autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, ADHD
- Diabetes with complications, heart conditions, kidney disease
Appealing a PIP Decision
If your PIP claim is refused or you receive a lower award than expected, do not simply accept it. A significant percentage of appeals to the First-tier Tribunal are successful — particularly where claimants provide additional medical evidence and attend the hearing.
- Mandatory reconsideration — Request within 1 month of the decision. A different DWP decision-maker reviews the case. Submit additional evidence if available.
- First-tier Tribunal appeal — If reconsideration fails, appeal to an independent First-tier Tribunal (Social Entitlement Chamber) within 1 month of the reconsideration notice.
- Attend the hearing — Attend in person if possible. Tribunals are more likely to award PIP when the claimant attends. Seek support from Citizens Advice or a welfare benefits adviser.