New figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) reveal that as of the end of April, 4 million people in England and Wales are entitled to Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This marks a 2% increase since January.
Key Statistics
Of these claimants, 3.3 million (83%) are of working age, while 680,000 (17%) are of State Pension Age. Notably, 37% receive the highest award level. Successful PIP claims range from £30.30 to £194.60 per week, translating to payments between £121.20 and £778.40 every four weeks.
In Scotland, Adult Disability Payment (ADP) has replaced PIP. Social Security Scotland data shows 504,710 people received ADP at the end of April, with 38% new applicants and 62% transferred from PIP.
Most Common Conditions for PIP Claims
For new claims between January and April, 58% were short-term (0-2 years), 34% longer-term (over 2 years), and 7% ongoing. The five most recorded disabling conditions are:
- Psychiatric disorder (39%)
- Musculoskeletal disease (general) (19%)
- Neurological disease (13%)
- Musculoskeletal disease (regional) (12%)
- Respiratory disease (4%)
PIP and ADP support over 530 health conditions, with awards based on how a condition affects daily living tasks or mobility.
Eligibility and Payment
To qualify, you must have had difficulties with daily living or mobility for 3 months, expecting them to last at least 9 months. Usually, you need to have lived in the UK for 2 of the last 3 years. Payments are made every four weeks, with rates for daily living (standard £76.70, enhanced £114.60) and mobility (standard £30.30, enhanced £80.00).
Assessments are conducted by independent healthcare professionals, with options for face-to-face, video, phone, or paper-based evaluations. In Scotland, ADP assessments avoid face-to-face unless preferred.
How to Apply
For PIP, contact the DWP with your contact details, date of birth, National Insurance number, bank details, and doctor's information. For ADP in Scotland, call Social Security Scotland at 0800 182 2222 or visit mygov.scot.
