DWP PIP payments could unlock extra benefits for health issues and disabilities

Successful claimants of one benefitcould be entitled to even more support. Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a financial aid designed to help people over the age of 16 and under the State Pension age who are dealing with more than 500 health issues or disabling conditions. These conditions can be physical, sensory, mental, cognitive, intellectual, or a combination of these.

According to the latest data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), over 3.7 million people across Great Britain were receiving PIP as of the end of April. A successful PIP claim can provide between £29.20 and £187.45 per week to help cover the additional costs associated with daily living and mobility needs.

A PIP award may also allow claimants to access means-tested benefits even if they have previously been deemed ineligible. As per the guidance in the PIP Handbook, it might also be possible to backdate certain benefits to the start of their PIP award.

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This is because entitlement to PIP can serve as a gateway or passport to other benefits, such as Carer's Allowance and schemes sponsored by other departments, like the Blue Badge.

The guidance clarifies that while many benefits and schemes have additional qualifying conditions, some, including the Blue Badge, offer alternative ways of accessing the benefit that do not rely on a specific rate or component of PIP, reports the Daily Record.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued guidance stating: "For DWP benefits, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, we share information to enable claimants to automatically access other disability benefits and services.

"However, claimants should inform other benefit offices about their entitlement to make sure they're paid the correct amounts, particularly if there are any changes in their circumstances and awards."

In most cases, claimants will need to use their Personal Independence Payment (PIP) award letter as proof of entitlement. The guidance also suggests that carers might be eligible to claim Income Support (including for up to 26 weeks whilst the PIP claim is being processed) and many carers may continue claiming Income Support after PIP is granted.

The DWP advises claimants to seek advice about other benefits they may also be entitled to.

Benefits which could be accessed with a PIP award

• Housing Benefit
• Pension Credit - only if you get the PIP daily living component
• Council Tax Reduction
• Carer’s Allowance / Carer Support Payment
• Christmas Bonus
• Employment and Support Allowance - only if you get the PIP daily living component
• Carer’s Credit
• Access to Work
• Income Support‎
• Universal Credit
• Jobseeker’s Allowance

While you may not qualify for any or all of these benefits, it's worth checking to ensure you are not missing out on additional support. You can read the complete PIP Handbook on GOV.UK here.