The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a significant delay in the planned rollout of an online application system for Personal Independence Payments (PIP), a crucial benefit for people with disabilities, mental health conditions, or illnesses who need extra support with daily living activities. Initially slated for a 2024 launch across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, this delay could mean that many claimants will have to wait for several more years before they can apply for PIP online.
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What is PIP?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit designed to help individuals with illness, disability, or mental health conditions cover the additional costs they incur due to their conditions. This financial assistance comes in two parts:
- Daily Living Rate: Helps with daily tasks like washing, dressing, cooking, and managing finances.
- Standard rate: £72.65 per week
- Higher rate: £108.55 per week
- Mobility Rate: Helps with getting around, including travel and navigating public spaces.
- Standard rate: £28.70 per week
- Higher rate: £75.75 per week
Together, these rates can total up to £737.20 every four weeks for those who qualify for the higher rates. PIP is usually paid monthly, but it can be paid weekly for people with a terminal illness.
Why is the Delay Happening?
The DWP began trialing online applications for PIP in January 2022, with the aim of introducing the service nationwide by 2024. The goal was to streamline the application process and significantly reduce the current waiting times for claimants, which can take up to 20 weeks to receive a decision.
However, reports indicate that the full online application rollout has now been delayed for several years. Currently, only about 60 people per day in select locations across the UK are able to access the online system, while the majority of claimants still have to apply by phone or post.
The DWP has not provided specific reasons for the delay but has been contacted for comment. For now, claimants will need to wait for the full implementation of the online system, which many hoped would simplify and expedite the process.
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How Does the PIP Application Process Work?
Regardless of the online application system delay, those who believe they are eligible for PIP can still apply by phone or post. To apply, individuals must go through an assessment process, which typically includes an interview where they will explain how their condition affects their daily life.
The assessment can be conducted:
- In person
- Over the phone
- Via video call
During the assessment, claimants will be scored based on their ability to carry out various daily tasks, and these points will determine whether they qualify for the daily living component and/or mobility component of PIP. Here’s how the points system works:
- Daily Living Component:
- Standard rate: 8-11 points
- Higher rate: 12 points or more
- Mobility Component:
- Standard rate: 8-11 points
- Higher rate: 12 points or more
People with a terminal illness typically do not need to undergo an assessment to claim PIP.
How Long Will PIP Claims Last?
Once approved, PIP claims are usually awarded for a period of one to ten years, depending on the claimant’s condition and expected recovery or progression. The DWP reviews these claims periodically to assess whether the claimant’s needs have changed.
If you are over state pension age, you typically won’t be able to make a new claim for PIP. Instead, you’ll likely need to apply for Attendance Allowance, a similar benefit that helps with additional costs in later life.
How Can You Apply for PIP?
If you are eligible for PIP, you can apply by contacting the DWP. While the online application system is delayed, applications can still be made by phone or post. You can check with the DWP or your local Jobcentre Plus for more information on how to apply and what documentation you’ll need.
In the meantime, the DWP is continuing to trial the online application process, and many claimants are hopeful that, despite the delay, the new system will make the application process more efficient once it’s fully operational.
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While the delay in the online PIP application system is disappointing for many, the process of applying for PIP is still in place through phone and post. If you need assistance with daily living or mobility needs due to illness or disability, it’s important to apply for PIP as soon as you meet the eligibility criteria. Keep an eye out for updates from the DWP about the online system’s eventual rollout, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance on the application process in the meantime.
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