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Benefits & Support2 min check

PIP Eligibility Checker

A quick indicative check of whether you may qualify for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and at what rate.

Short answer

PIP has two components — daily living and mobility — each paid at a standard or enhanced rate based on a points score from a DWP assessment. Your condition must have lasted (or be expected to last) at least 12 months.
Step 1 of 30%

Eligibility basics

Are you aged 16 to State Pension age?
Have your difficulties lasted 3+ months and are expected to last 9+ more?
UK resident & present 2 of last 3 years?

How it works

PIP has 10 daily living activities and 2 mobility activities. Each is scored 0–12 points based on how you can complete it 'reliably' (safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly and in reasonable time).

Daily living: 8–11 points = standard, 12+ = enhanced. Mobility: same thresholds.

Worked example

James has MS. He needs help cooking, prompts to take medication, struggles with budgeting, and uses crutches outdoors.

  • Daily living points: 10 → Standard rate (£73.90/week)
  • Mobility points: 10 → Standard rate (£29.20/week)
  • Total: ~£103/week

Who should use this

  • Adults 16-State Pension age with a long-term condition or disability
  • Carers helping someone apply or appeal
  • People moving from DLA to PIP

Common mistakes

  • ×Underplaying difficulties — describe your worst days, not your best
  • ×Forgetting that 'reliably' includes safety and repeatability
  • ×Not gathering medical evidence (GP letters, hospital reports)
  • ×Missing the 1-month deadline for Mandatory Reconsideration if refused

Frequently asked questions

Is PIP means-tested?

No. Income, savings and partner's earnings don't affect PIP.

How long does a PIP decision take?

Currently around 14-20 weeks from initial claim, including the assessment.

Can I work and claim PIP?

Yes. PIP is about how your condition affects you, not whether you work.

What happens at the assessment?

Usually a phone, video or face-to-face consultation with a healthcare professional from Capita or IAS.

Can I appeal a PIP refusal?

Yes — first request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month, then appeal to a Tribunal if still refused. Tribunals overturn around 70% of cases that reach them.

Does PIP affect Universal Credit?

No — PIP is paid on top and doesn't reduce your UC.

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