Home » Benefits and pensions » Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Official links

Who handles it

Step by step

1. Check you qualify: your condition causes difficulty with everyday tasks or getting around and is expected to last at least 12 months.
2. Start your claim by calling the PIP new claims line or by post. In some areas you can apply fully online.
3. Fill in the form 'How your disability affects you' within 1 month and add any supporting evidence.
4. Go to the assessment if you are invited (in person, by phone or by video). You can bring someone with you.
5. In Scotland apply for Adult Disability Payment to Social Security Scotland. In Northern Ireland follow the nidirect process.

What you need

• Your National Insurance number and contact details
• Your bank or building society account number and sort code
• Your doctor's or health worker's name, address and phone number
• Dates of stays in hospital or a care home, and of trips abroad longer than 4 weeks
• Supporting evidence such as prescription lists, care plans or letters from your doctor

Common mistakes

• Sending the form after the 1 month deadline without asking for more time.
• Applying for PIP in Scotland: you need Adult Disability Payment instead.
• Making a new PIP claim after reaching State Pension age: you usually need Attendance Allowance instead.

More in Benefits and pensions

• Universal Credit
• Check which benefits you can get
• Child Benefit
• Check your State Pension
• Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction
• Pension Credit
• Carer's Allowance
• Attendance Allowance
• Sure Start Maternity Grant