The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a new warning to people claiming benefits, particularly those completing applications for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance. In a statement released in Parliament this week, Sir Stephen Timms, Minister of State (Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government) (Equalities), responded to a question about social security applications.
Minister's response on fee-charging companies
Sir Stephen Timms was asked by Samantha Niblett, Labour MP for South Derbyshire, whether he would "publish the Government's position on fee paying and no win no fee organisations, who complete benefit applications such as PIP and Attendance Allowance for constituents which are inaccurate; and if he will consider whether regulation of these services ought to be extended to protect vulnerable applicants."
In response, Sir Stephen Timms said: "We are aware of the proliferation of claims management companies who charge a fee and would advise claimants to think very carefully before using such services. Free help, support and advice on claiming Personal Independent Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance is widely available. There is no need for claimants to pay for advice and support."
He added: "We remain committed to protecting claimants from poor quality or misleading or exploitative practices. The Department continues to monitor developments in this area and is considering whether further measures are necessary to strengthen protections for claimants and maintain confidence in the benefits system."
Free help and the PIP claims process
Citizens Advice can provide free guidance on how the PIP points system operates. They can assist in completing forms and offer support should a claimant need to challenge or appeal an unfavourable decision.
Their website outlines three stages to making a PIP claim:
- Contact the DWP and complete the PIP1 form — this can be done on your behalf over the phone.
- If you satisfy the basic eligibility conditions for PIP, the DWP will instruct you to complete the PIP2 form — available by post or via an email link to an online form.
- Attend a medical assessment.
The process can take up to six months from initial contact with the DWP to receiving the first payment. Should the DWP determine that you are entitled to PIP, they will pay the amount owed from the date you first submitted your claim.
For those with a terminal illness, the PIP claims process differs, and the DWP will typically handle applications more swiftly. Note that PIP cannot be backdated, meaning no payments will be made for any period prior to your claim being submitted.
How to make a claim and what PIP covers
The quickest way to begin a claim is by phoning the DWP directly, rather than writing to them. You will need certain details to hand, including your full name, address, phone number, and National Insurance number.
The gov.uk website states that PIP can assist with additional living costs if you have both a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability and difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around because of your condition. You can still claim PIP even if you're in employment, have savings, or are already receiving most other benefits.
PIP is made up of two components: a daily living part — for those who require assistance with everyday tasks — and a mobility part, for those who need help getting around. Whether you're entitled to one or both components, and the amount you receive, is determined by how much difficulty you experience with everyday tasks and mobility.
Attendance Allowance provides financial support towards additional costs if you have a disability or health condition severe enough to require somebody to help care for you. A separate claims process exists for those nearing the end of life, for instance due to a life-limiting illness. For further information, visit the gov.uk page on Attendance Allowance.
