The UK government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to implement significant changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment criteria, starting November 2026. These new rules will change how eligibility is determined for the Daily Living component of PIP and could affect hundreds of thousands of claimants across the country.
What Is Changing?
Under the current system, claimants qualify for PIP by accumulating a total number of points based on difficulties with daily living and mobility activities. The new rules introduce a stricter requirement for the Daily Living component.
From November 2026 onwards, claimants will need to score at least 4 points in one specific daily living activity and also have an overall minimum of 8 points. This is a significant shift from the current system, where claimants could qualify by combining smaller scores across multiple activities. For example, under the new rules, a claimant with six 2-point descriptors (totaling 12 points) would no longer qualify unless at least one activity meets the 4-point threshold.
The DWP will apply these changes not only to new claimants but also to those currently receiving PIP when their awards come up for review after the implementation date.
Why Is This Change Happening?
The government says these reforms aim to create a fairer and more consistent benefits system. The idea is to focus support on individuals with the most severe daily living challenges. However, critics warn the stricter rules may unfairly cut benefits from people who genuinely need help but don’t meet the new high-scoring activity threshold.
Who Will Be Affected?
It is estimated that around 800,000 people could lose entitlement to the Daily Living component of PIP by the financial year 2029/30 due to these new assessment criteria. This includes many individuals who rely on PIP to manage daily living costs linked to their disabilities or long-term health conditions.
Carers who support PIP recipients may also feel the impact. Approximately 150,000 carers who receive Carer’s Allowance or the Universal Credit Carer’s Element could lose support if the people they care for no longer qualify for PIP.
The financial consequences of losing the Daily Living component are substantial. The weekly payment can be up to £110.40, which provides essential assistance for many vulnerable people.
What Should Claimants Do Now?
If you currently receive PIP or are planning to apply, it is vital to prepare for these changes:
- Review Your Award: Keep track of your PIP award review dates, especially if they fall after November 2026. The new criteria will apply at your next reassessment.
- Gather Evidence: Collect detailed medical and personal evidence that clearly documents the extent of your daily living difficulties. Accurate evidence is critical during reassessments to demonstrate why you need the Daily Living component.
- Seek Advice: Organisations such as Citizens Advice and Turn2Us offer free advice on PIP claims and reassessments. Consider reaching out to get guidance tailored to your situation.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from the DWP and welfare rights organisations. Being aware of changes will help you respond proactively and protect your benefits.
Conclusion
The revised PIP assessment criteria represent a major change in how disability benefits are awarded in the UK. While aimed at making the system fairer, these new rules will likely reduce eligibility for many people who depend on PIP daily living support. If you are a current or potential claimant, understanding these changes early can make a critical difference in how you prepare for your next assessment.
