What is PIP?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit for people who need daily help because of a long-term illness, disability or mental health condition. We explain what PIP is.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit paid to people who are 16 - 64 years old and has replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
What are Personal Independent Payments?
Personal Independence Payments (PIP) are a non-means tested benefit meaning your claim will not be affected by your income, capital or savings.
You can also claim on top of other benefits including Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit. However, PIP may affect Constant Attendance Allowance or war pensioners' mobility supplement.
PIP has been awarded to those who have a mental or physical condition which affects day-to-day life. This may include the following:
- Speaking to other people
- Shopping and paying bills
- Planning and following journeys
- Preparing food and eating
- Washing and bathing
PIP is made up of two parts known as components, and you may qualify for one or both:
Each PIP component is paid into your bank, building or post office account every four weeks at either a standard or an enhanced rate.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) use a points system at an assessment to see which components you are eligible for and at what rate.
Is PIP Being Replaced?
In 2022 it was announced that Personal Independence Payment will be phased out and replaced by Adult Disability Payment which is a new Scottish benefit offered by Social Security Scotland.
ADP officially launched on the 21st of March 2022 with a pilot scheme in Perth and Kinross, Dundee and the Western Isles. The phased national rollout started in August 2022 and the case transfer is expected to be complete by the Summer of 2024.
If you are currently claiming PIP, you will be informed by the Department of Work and Pensions at the beginning of the transfer process over to Adult Disability Payment. This will be done automatically so you do not need to do anything during the transfer process. Social Security Scotland will also write to you once the transfer process of your application is complete.
