Motability has introduced an extra 3,000 miles per year for customers living in rural areas, following an enquiry by MP Sorcha Eastwood about whether the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) had explored widening eligibility criteria for the mileage allowance extension.
In response, Sir Stephen Timms stated that the DWP has limited control over the administration of the Motability Scheme, noting that the Motability Foundation is an independent charitable organisation responsible for the terms and administration. He explained that Government data would be used to identify qualifying postcodes.
How the additional mileage works
Motability Operations uses the Rural and Islands Isolation Framework, which relies on national governments' data on rural isolation, to determine eligible postcodes. The organisation is writing directly to customers in eligible postcodes and has asked customers not to contact them to enquire about eligibility.
Under the new rules, users exceeding 10,000 miles annually will incur a charge of 25p per mile beyond that limit. Previously, drivers could cover up to 20,000 miles before a 5p per mile excess charge applied.
Support for extra travel needs
Motability guidance states that three out of four customers already drive below the new limit, but those who need to travel much further for healthcare, education, or employment may be eligible for help with extra miles. The scheme requires clear evidence of significantly higher travel for these purposes.
