The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an update on its timeline to expand digital services for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) customers. More than four million people were claiming PIP as of April 2026, according to UK Government figures.
The latest published figures show the number of PIP claimants has risen to 4,010,098, up from 3,926,015 in January of this year. PIP is administered by the DWP and helps with some of the additional costs arising from long-term disability, ill-health, or for those nearing the end of their life due to a progressive illness.
Current application options
PIP is intended for those who need assistance with daily living, particularly people of State Pension age who wish to remain independent in their own homes. Rather than being paid at a single flat rate, the benefit is split into two components, determined by the extent to which a claimant's condition impacts their independence. The daily living component covers the additional costs of managing everyday tasks.
Currently, you can begin a claim for PIP by phone, by post, or online in certain areas. However, the DWP is in the process of making it so that everyone can apply online to help applications more accessible, quicker and less stressful.
Government response on digital expansion
Darren Paffey, a Labour Party politician for Southampton Itchen, asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the timeline is for expanding the digital application option for PIP to all eligible claimants on Friday, October 9. In a response published on Parliament's website, Sir Stephen Timms said: "Through the Health Transformation Programme, we are expanding digital services for Personal Independence Payment customers."
Sir Stephen Timms added: "Over 90% of those making new PIP applications can now submit their health information online after starting their claim by phone. This is benefitting customers by removing postage times and increasing accessibility. We are continuing to extend this option to all customers and, by the end of the Programme, customers will be able to view application progress and report a change of circumstances online, reducing their need to call the enquiry line."
Benefit rates and eligibility
The current standard rate of the benefit stands at £76.55 per week, while the enhanced rate provides £114.80. The mobility component addresses the difficulties of getting around. The base rate for this element is £30.20, rising to an increased level of £80.10.
By qualifying for the enhanced daily living rate and a proportion of the mobility support, eligible claimants can see their weekly total reach £187, which is £748 per month. Eligibility for PIP is not determined by National Insurance contributions and is not means-tested — meaning that even if you are employed, have savings, or are already receiving other benefits, you can still qualify for the payments to assist with daily living tasks.
PIP is not awarded automatically, and the DWP will assess how much difficulty claimants with the condition experience when carrying out daily living and mobility tasks. According to the DWP, to receive PIP you must experience difficulty with tasks most of the time. This means you are expected to have difficulty on more than half of the days over a 12-month period.
