How to Apply Personal Independence Payment: Step-by-Step 2025

Introduction

If you live with a long-term health condition or disability in the UK, understanding how to apply Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can make a huge difference to your independence and finances. PIP is designed to help with the extra costs that come with daily challenges. Unlike some other benefits, it isn’t means-tested, which means your income or savings won’t affect whether you qualify.

That said, the process isn’t always straightforward. Many applicants struggle with forms, evidence, or the assessment itself. This guide explains everything step by step, from the first phone call to receiving your decision, while also sharing tips to make your application stronger.

What is Personal Independence Payment and who can apply?

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers a disability payment called Personal Independence Payment, or PIP. It replaces Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for most adults and focuses on how your condition affects your daily living and mobility, rather than on the diagnosis itself.

Generally speaking, you can apply if you are 16 years of age or older but not yet eligible for the State Pension and if you have had mobility or everyday life challenges for at least three months. Those difficulties must also be expected to continue for at least another nine months. Unlike Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), which looks at your ability to work, PIP is about your ability to live independently.

“PIP isn’t about your diagnosis—it’s about your functional ability,” explains Benefits Advisor Mark Rowe.

How does PIP differ from other disability benefits?

Many confuse PIP with other benefits, but it has a different focus.

• PIP vs ESA: ESA checks ability to work, while PIP looks at independence.

• PIP vs DLA: DLA is being phased out for adults, replaced by PIP.

• PIP vs Attendance Allowance: Attendance Allowance is for people over State Pension age.

How do you apply for Personal Independence Payment step by step?

Step 1: Check if you meet the PIP eligibility criteria

• Confirm your age (16+ and under State Pension age).

• Check you’ve lived in England, Scotland, or Wales for at least 2 of the last 3 years.

• Verify that your health issue has persisted for at least 12 months or is anticipated to do so.

Step 2: To begin the application process, call the PIP claim line

• Call the PIP new claims line: 0800 917 2222 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm).

• Have ready:

  • National Insurance number

  • Contact details

  • Bank account details

  • GP or health professional’s details

Step 3: Receive and complete the PIP1 form

• The DWP will send you a PIP1 form.

• Basic details about you and your illness are covered here.

• Return it promptly to keep your claim active.

Step 4: Complete the “How your disability affects you” PIP2 form.

• The process’s most complex step is this one.

• It covers two main areas:

  • Daily living activities (e.g. preparing food, washing, managing medication).

  • Mobility activities (e.g. moving around, planning a journey).

• Use clear, real-life examples of how your condition affects you.

Step 5: Gather supporting evidence

Attach copies of:

• GP letters or hospital reports

• Care plans or occupational therapy notes

• Statements from carers, friends, or family

Step 6: Attend the PIP assessment

The majority of people will be asked to attend an evaluation, which might be:

• • Face-to-face

  • Video call

  • Telephone

A medical expert will enquire about how your illness impacts your day-to-day activities.

Step 7: Wait for the decision letter

The Department of Work and Pension reviews your application and evidence.

• You’ll receive a decision letter explaining:

  • Whether you’ve been awarded PIP

  • Which components (daily living, mobility)

  • The rate (standard or enhanced)

Step 8: Receive your first PIP payment

• If successful, you’ll usually receive your first payment within 4 weeks.

• Payments are every 4 weeks and backdated to your application start date.

Step 9: Challenge the decision if needed

• You have one month to request a Mandatory Reconsideration if you don’t agree with the decision.

• You can appeal to an impartial tribunal if you’re still not satisfied.

What is included in the PIP2 “How your disability affects you” form?

The PIP2 form is where you explain your real-life struggles with daily living and mobility. It’s vital to describe how your condition affects you on bad days, not just good ones.

• Covers activities such as cooking, washing, moving around, and managing medication.

• Needs detailed examples of how tasks are difficult or unsafe.

• Should be supported by evidence such as medical notes or carer statements.

How does the PIP assessment process work?

Most applicants will have an assessment with a health professional. This can be face-to-face, by video, or over the phone, and usually lasts about an hour.

• The assessor enquires about your everyday life and health.

• Your movement and everyday life activities get you points.

• 8–11 points = standard rate; 12+ points = enhanced rate.

What should you do after receiving your PIP decision letter?

The DWP will write to you explaining your award, payment rate, and duration. It’s important to check the details carefully against your circumstances.

• Request a Mandatory Reconsideration within a month if you don’t agree.
• You can appeal to an impartial tribunal if you’re still not satisfied.

• Free help is available from Citizens Advice and disability charities.

What are the payment rates for Personal Independence Payment in 2025?

 Your eligibility for the daily living component, mobility component, or both, as well as the rate at which you get them, determine how much you get.

• Payments are usually made every four weeks.

• Rates are reviewed annually, so check GOV.UK for updates.

• PIP may boost eligibility for additional benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance.

How long does a Personal Independence Payment award last?

The duration of your award is determined by your circumstances and state of health. Some awards are short-term, while others are reviewed less often.

• Short-term awards are usually 2–3 years.

• Long-term awards can last up to 10 years.

• Some people receive ongoing awards with light-touch reviews.

How can you make your PIP application stronger?

Strong applications are clear, detailed, and backed up with evidence. The way you describe your condition makes a big difference to how the DWP understands your needs.

• Use specific examples of daily struggles, especially on bad days.

• Provide supporting evidence like GP letters or care plans.

• Ask carers or family members to give written observations.

Conclusion: How to Apply Personal Independence Payment successfully

The PIP process can seem daunting, but breaking it into steps makes it easier. Call the claims line first, then carefully fill out your forms, provide supporting documentation, and be ready for your evaluation. Always check your decision letter and challenge it if you think it’s unfair.

• Focus on how your condition affects your daily life.

• Use evidence to back up your statements.

• Get advice and support from trusted organisations if you need help.

FAQs

Can I apply for a PIP form online?

No, the form is sent after you call the PIP claims line.

What illness qualifies you for PIP?

Any long-term physical or mental health condition can qualify if it limits daily living or mobility.

Do I need a doctor’s letter to apply for PIP?

No, it’s not required, but medical evidence can strengthen your claim.

How long does it take for PIP to make a decision?

Most decisions take about three months, but some can take longer.

What is the PIP contact number?

The PIP new claims line is 0800 917 2222 (Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm).

What happens if your health condition changes after applying for PIP?

You must tell the DWP if your condition improves or worsens, as it could change your award