DWP Removes PIP Payments for 220,000 People Following Strict New Ruling

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has revoked Personal Independence Payments (PIP) for 220,000 people following health reassessments conducted between February 2019 and January 2024. These reviews evaluate whether recipients still qualify for the benefit, with significant implications for individuals who rely on PIP for daily living or mobility support.

Here’s a breakdown of what happened, why it happened, and what PIP recipients need to know.

PIP and Its Reviews

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a financial benefit provided to individuals with physical or mental health conditions that make daily tasks or mobility challenging. The benefit amount depends on the severity of a claimant’s condition and its impact on their life.

Why Reviews Happen

PIP awards are not always indefinite. Reviews occur under these circumstances:

1. End of Review Period: At the conclusion of the timeframe set when the payment was first awarded.
2. Change in Circumstances: If a claimant informs the DWP of changes in their health or living situation.
3. Routine Reassessment: Periodic reviews ensure claimants still meet eligibility criteria.

Key Findings

Over the five-year period:

• 20% Lost Payments: Approximately one in five reviews led to PIP being stopped. This equates to 220,000 people who no longer qualified due to perceived health improvements.
• 52% Unchanged: In more than half the cases, payments stayed the same, reflecting no significant change in the claimant’s condition.
• Other Adjustments: The remaining cases resulted in changes to award levels, either increasing or decreasing based on the reassessment findings.

These statistics highlight the stringent review process and its potential to disrupt financial stability for claimants.

PIP Reviews Increasing

The DWP cites several factors contributing to a rise in PIP reviews:

1. Unprecedented Demand: A growing number of claimants is putting pressure on the system.
2. Increased Awareness: More people are now aware of PIP, leading to a surge in applications.
3. Ageing Population: With an ageing population, more individuals are developing conditions that qualify for PIP.

PIP Review

During a review:

• The DWP evaluates the claimant’s condition to determine if they still meet PIP eligibility criteria.
• The case may or may not involve an external Assessment Provider.
• Awards can either increase, decrease, or stop entirely depending on the findings.

PIP Is Stopped

If your PIP is discontinued and you disagree with the decision, you can:

1. Request a Mandatory Reconsideration: Ask the DWP to review their decision. This must be done within one month of the decision date.
2. Appeal to a Tribunal: If the reconsideration fails, you can take your case to an independent tribunal.

It’s essential to provide up-to-date medical evidence and documentation to strengthen your case during these processes.

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