PIP claimants planning summer holidays abroad are being reminded to inform the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) if their trip meets certain criteria, as failing to do so could risk payments being stopped while they are away.
People receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP) must report changes in circumstances, including leaving the country for more than four weeks, even for a holiday. According to guidance on the Gov.uk website, this change may affect entitlement. The DWP needs to know the date of departure, how long the claimant will be out of the country, which country they are going to, and why they are going abroad.
Duration and medical treatment rules
Claimants can normally continue to claim PIP if abroad for up to 13 weeks. This can be extended to 26 weeks if travelling for medical treatment. For trips under four weeks, claimants generally do not need to inform the DWP, as short temporary travel is not considered a change of circumstances and usually does not affect eligibility.
If moving abroad permanently, claimants cannot claim the PIP mobility component but may be able to claim the daily living element if they meet certain criteria. This includes if the claimant or a family member works in the UK, pays National Insurance, receives State Pension, Industrial Injuries Benefit, contribution-based ESA, or bereavement benefits, or is covered by the Withdrawal Agreement.
How to report
To report a holiday of more than four weeks, claimants should contact the PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433, open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
