According to new data, the Department for Work and Pensions has reported that a number of those receiving Personal Independence Payment could be under-claiming due to unreported changes in their situation
Fresh figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have revealed that amongst the 3.7 million people across Britain receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP), roughly 11% may be missing out on cash they’re entitled to because they haven’t reported changes to their circumstances.
The 2024/25 Fraud and Error in the Benefit System report spotlights how PIP suffers from one of the steepest rates of unclaimed entitlement – formerly termed claimant error – across all welfare payments, with massive amounts at stake, representing 30% of all overlooked claims last year.
The value of unclaimed PIP money hit approximately £1,060m (4.1%), climbing from £870m (4%) the year before.
The DWP has blamed all overlooked claims on people “failing to inform the Department they needed more help, or their condition had deteriorated.” PIP spending rose to £25.8bn last year, a sharp jump from the £21.6bn allocated in 2023/24.
It’s crucial to understand that PIP rates range from £29.20 to £187.45 weekly, with each claimant’s payment determined by how their condition impacts their daily living and getting around, rather than simply the condition they have.
This support is designed to help those facing extra expenses due to disability, long-term illness, or mental or physical health challenges, reports the Daily Record. However, a recent fraud and error report has shockingly disclosed that an estimated 402,500 individuals on PIP may not be getting the proper financial aid they’re rightfully due.
PIP payment rates
Standard or higher daily living or mobility component recipients can now expect:
- Standard daily living rate – £73.90 per week, £295.60 per pay period
- Enhanced daily living rate – £110.40 per week, £441.60 per pay period
- Standard mobility rate – £29.20 per week, £116.80 per pay period
- Enhanced mobility rate – £77.05 per week, £308.20 per pay period
Changes you do not need to report to DWP
PIP is not a means-tested benefit and can be paid whether the claimant is working or not, so there is no need to inform the DWP if you:
- Start a new job
- Stop claiming other benefits
- Change roles at work – unless the amount of help you need has changed
- Leave a job
- Are made redundant
- Take retirement
Changes you must report to DWP
However, guidance on the GOV.UK website states you must contact the PIP enquiry line if:
- Your personal details change – for example, your name, address or doctor
- The help you need or your condition changes
- Your condition has worsened and you’re not expected to live more than six months
- You go into hospital or a care home
- You go abroad (for more than four weeks)
- You are imprisoned or held in detention
The GOV.UK website goes on to warn: “You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances.”
Reporting a change in circumstances
Before making the call, ensure you have your National Insurance number, bank account details, and the name and address of your GP at hand for the DWP to confirm your identity.
- Telephone: 0800 121 4433 (option 5)
- Textphone: 0800 121 4493
- Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 121 4433
- Video relay service for British Sign Language (BSL) users – check you can use the service here.
