The UK government has announced that starting next year, around 150,000 people receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could see their benefits reduced or completely stopped.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is planning to carry out fresh assessments for many long-term claimants, a move expected to affect thousands across the country.
This decision is part of a broader strategy by the DWP to ensure that disability benefits are going to those who still meet the current eligibility requirements.
What Is PIP?
PIP is a benefit for people aged 16 and above who live with a long-term health condition or disability. It helps them with the extra costs of daily living and mobility.
There are two parts to PIP:
- Daily Living Component
- Mobility Component
Each component has standard and enhanced rates depending on how much support the person needs.
As of now, millions of people in the UK depend on PIP to manage their basic expenses related to health, mobility, and independence.
Why Are Payments Being Cut?
Previously, thousands of people, especially older claimants or those with long-term or permanent conditions, were given “light-touch” PIP awards. These awards were long-term and required fewer or no reassessments.
However, from 2025, many of these people will be called for renewed medical reviews. The DWP says the aim is to reassess whether they still meet the eligibility rules and whether their conditions have changed.
According to internal estimates, this new reassessment process may lead to payment reductions or complete removal of PIP for around 150,000 people.
Who Will Be Affected?
The following groups are more likely to be affected by these changes:
- People with long-term or ongoing awards issued before 2019
- Individuals over State Pension age who were not reassessed in recent years
- Claimants who have not reported any changes in their condition for a long time
- Those whose health conditions may have improved or stabilized
If you are currently on a PIP award and haven’t been reviewed recently, you might receive a letter from the DWP next year asking for an updated assessment.
What Will the Review Include?
A PIP review can include:
- A detailed form about your current health and daily life
- Medical documents or GP notes
- A telephone, video, or in-person assessment
- A final decision from the DWP, which could result in an increase, decrease, or stop in payments
The outcome depends on how your current condition affects your daily activities and mobility. Even if your condition hasn’t changed, you will need to explain clearly how it still affects your everyday life.
DWP’s Statement
The DWP stated the move:
“We are making sure that PIP continues to support those who truly need it. Reviews help us understand if a person’s condition has changed, and ensure fair use of public funds.”
The department further clarified that some claimants could see increased payments if their needs have grown since their last assessment.
Can You Challenge a Payment Cut?
Yes. If your PIP is reduced or stopped, you have the right to challenge the decision. The process includes:
- Mandatory Reconsideration – Ask the DWP to review your claim again.
- Tribunal Appeal – If the reconsideration does not work, you can go to an independent tribunal.
- Support Organisations – Groups like Citizens Advice or Disability Rights UK can help with documentation and appeals.
Make sure to respond quickly if you receive a letter, and always keep your medical records up to date.
How to Prepare If You’re a Claimant?
If you are currently receiving PIP and are worried about these changes, here’s what you can do:
- Watch for official DWP letters or review notices
- Prepare updated medical records and specialist letters
- Document how your condition affects your daily life in detail
- Seek advice from organisations like:
Why Is This Change Happening?
The government is trying to control rising welfare costs and make sure the benefits system remains “fair and efficient”. Reassessing long-term claims helps the DWP ensure that only eligible people are receiving benefits.
However, disability rights groups have raised concerns. They say that forcing people with lifelong conditions to go through repeated reviews can create unnecessary stress, especially for older and vulnerable claimants.
Final Words
With PIP reassessments scheduled to start again in 2025, many claimants will soon face new reviews of their eligibility. If you or a family member is on PIP, it is important to be prepared, know your rights, and seek help when needed.
While the DWP insists the changes are aimed at improving fairness, the news of potential reductions has already caused anxiety among disabled individuals and support organisations. Staying informed and ready is the best way to navigate this upcoming shift in disability benefit policy.