Personal Independence Payment (PIP) explained

The 2026/27 rates, who can claim and how the claim process works.

The short answer

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a tax-free benefit for people aged 16 or over, and under State Pension age for a new claim, who have a long-term health condition or disability that makes everyday tasks or getting around difficult. It has two parts, daily living and mobility, each with a lower and a higher rate. It does not depend on your income, savings or whether you work. This guide covers England and Wales. Scotland has its own Adult Disability Payment, and Northern Ireland has separate arrangements.

How much is it?

Weekly rates for 2026/27, paid usually every four weeks:

Daily living: £76.70 (lower rate) or £114.60 (higher rate).
Mobility: £30.30 (lower rate) or £80.00 (higher rate).

You can be awarded one part or both, and each part is paid at the rate that fits your needs. PIP is tax-free and does not count as income for tax. It does not reduce most other benefits, but you should tell the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about changes, and some premiums and linked benefits can be affected.

Who can get it?

You are 16 or over, and for a new claim usually under State Pension age.
You have a physical or mental health condition or disability, and have difficulty with everyday tasks or getting around.
The difficulties are expected to last at least 12 months.
You usually need to have lived in England, Scotland or Wales for at least 2 of the last 3 years, and be living in England or Wales when you apply. Different rules can apply if you are subject to immigration control.

Your condition itself matters less than how it affects you day to day. Your savings, your income and whether you have a job do not affect whether you qualify.

How to claim

Call to start the claim: 0800 917 2222 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm). Relay UK users can use 18001 0800 917 2222.
Complete the "How your disability affects you" form, online or by post. You normally have one month to return it.
You may be asked to an assessment if DWP needs more information.

Supporting evidence can help, such as a list of your medicines, care plans, or letters from your doctor or others who support you. If you have a terminal illness, there is a different, quicker way to claim.

If you disagree with the decision

Ask for a mandatory reconsideration, usually within one month of the date on your decision letter. A late request is possible with a good reason.
If DWP does not change its mind, you can appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal, usually within one month of the reconsideration decision. This is free.

Free help is available from the organisations on our free help page, such as Citizens Advice, Turn2us and Disability Rights UK.

Where to learn more

This guide is for information only and is not tax, benefits or financial advice. Rules and amounts can change, so check the official pages before you rely on them.