PIP can help eligible claimants with some of the extra costs of long term ill health but the money awarded depends on how the condition affects the claimant, not the condition itself. To be eligible, a claimant must be aged between 16 and state pension age.
Where a claimant is receiving PIP, they must keep the Government kept up to date with any changes in circumstances.
If a claimant fails to do this, their payments could be reduced or halted altogether.
The PIP enquiry line will need to be contacted if:
- A claimant's personal details change, for example their name, address or doctor
- The help they need or their condition changes
- Their condition has worsened and they're not expected to live more than six months
- They go into hospital or a care home
- They go abroad
- They're imprisoned or held in detention
If these changes are not reported, a claimant may even be taken to court or be issued with a penalty.
Additionally, claimants will need to report any overpayments.
Claims for PIP can be made by telephone, textphone or post.
When applying, claimants will need to have personal details at the ready, such as their address and banking information.
Following an application, a claim will likely be reviewed by an independent health professional.
Once a claimant's condition has been assessed, they will receive a letter informing them of how much PIP they'll get.
Should a claimant disagree with this decision, they can challenge under mandatory reconsideration rules.
Full details on PIP can be found on the Government's website and impartial advice can be sought from the likes of the Money Advice Service and Citizens Advice.
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