Thousands of disabled people across the UK may have been underpaid their Personal Independence Payment (PIP) due to administrative errors by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The department has acknowledged systemic mistakes in assessing claims, potentially affecting tens of thousands of claimants.
What Went Wrong?
The errors primarily relate to how the DWP assessed claimants' ability to carry out daily activities and mobility needs. Officials failed to properly consider whether claimants required "supervision, prompting or assistance" when making decisions – a crucial factor in determining PIP eligibility and payment levels.
Who Could Be Affected?
- Claimants awarded PIP between 2016 and 2023
- Those whose conditions affect daily living activities
- People who may have been eligible for enhanced rates
How to Check if You're Owed Money
The DWP says it's identifying affected cases and will contact claimants directly. However, experts recommend:
- Review your original PIP decision letter carefully
- Check if your assessment considered all your needs
- Contact the DWP if you suspect an error
Charities advise claimants to seek independent advice before contacting the DWP, as the process can be complex. Many are calling for automatic compensation rather than requiring individuals to identify errors themselves.
What Happens Next?
The DWP has committed to reviewing all potentially affected cases and making back payments where appropriate. However, campaigners warn that many vulnerable people may miss out unless the department improves its error-checking systems.
