Six changes PIP claimants don't need to report to DWP
There are several changes that do not need to be declared to the DWP
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit available to those aged between 16 and under the State Pension age who require additional assistance with daily tasks or mobility due to a long-term illness, disability, or mental or physical health condition.
A successful claim for PIP can now mean payments between £29.20 and £187.45 per week, or some £116.80 or £749.80 every four-week pay period. The benefit aims to assist with the extra costs associated with living with a disability, long-term illness, or physical or mental health condition.
While many claimants may be aware of the list of changes in circumstances that must be reported to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to ensure uninterrupted payments, there are several changes that do not need to be declared, reports the Daily Record.
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
- Are made redundant
- Take retirement
- Leave a job
- Change roles at work - unless the amount of help you need has changed
Changes you must report to DWP
However, guidance on the GOV.UK website states you must contact the PIP enquiry line if:
- The help you need or your condition changes
- Your personal details change - for example, your name, address or doctor
- You go abroad (for more than four weeks)
- Your condition has worsened and you’re not expected to live more than six months
- You are imprisoned or held in detention
- You go into hospital or a care home
GOV.UK guidance continues: "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."
How to report a change of circumstances to DWP
To report any changes, ensure that you have your National Insurance number, bank account details, and your GP’s name and address handy before contacting 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.