The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has stated that individuals at state pension age will not face any impact from the potential alterations to Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
PIP serves as a disability benefit for those requiring assistance with daily tasks due to health issues, disabilities, or mental health conditions. It comprises two components – the daily living rate and the mobility rate, with eligibility determined by a points system assessment. Currently, scoring between eight and 11 points qualifies individuals for the standard daily living rate, while 12 points or more lead to eligibility for the higher rate.
Proposed changes by Labour suggest that starting November 2026, a minimum of four points in at least one activity will be necessary to receive the daily living aspect of PIP, while the point system for the mobility segment remains unchanged. Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, has assured that individuals at state pension age will not be impacted by these modifications. Recent statistics from the DWP reveal that around 690,186 people aged 65 to 79 were benefiting from PIP as of the end of January.
Sir Stephen, in response to Labour MP Paula Barker, emphasized that the new eligibility criteria for PIP will apply to new claims and award reviews post-November 2026, without affecting individuals of State Pension Age who are not routinely reviewed. The eligibility requirement for PIP is set to be detailed alongside the Pathways to Work Green Paper, with information already shared during the Spring Statement.
Most individuals can only apply for PIP if they are below state pension age. Exceptions include reaching state pension age after having a previous PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) claim within the last year or still receiving DLA, in which case the existing claim will persist.
Furthermore, in response to Independent MP Apsana Begum, the DWP minister affirmed that there will be no adjustments for individuals nearing the end of life applying for PIP, allowing them to expedite their applications through a special fast-track route. Sir Stephen underscored the importance of providing unqualified support to those approaching the end of life, ensuring continued access to the enhanced rate of the daily living component of PIP for individuals with a life expectancy of 12 months or less. The existing two-working-day fast-track system under the Special Rules for End of Life will remain unaffected by the new PIP eligibility requirements.