Does PIP Change of Circumstances Mean Another Assessment?

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit provided by the UK government to help individuals with disabilities or long-term health conditions manage additional living and mobility costs.

Unlike some other benefits, PIP is awarded based on how a condition affects an individual’s daily life rather than the condition itself.

However, if a claimant experiences a change in circumstances, such as a deterioration in their condition or an improvement in their mobility, they must inform the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This often raises concerns about whether reporting a change will lead to a reassessment.

In this guide, we will explain what qualifies as a change in circumstances, when a reassessment is required, and what the process involves.

Understanding PIP and Change of Circumstances

What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?

PIP is designed to support individuals with long-term physical or mental health conditions that affect their ability to carry out daily activities or move around.

It consists of two components:

• Daily Living Component: for individuals who need assistance with everyday tasks such as dressing, washing, or preparing meals.
• Mobility Component: for individuals who require help getting around due to physical or mental impairments.

PIP is awarded based on an assessment of how a condition impacts a claimant’s ability to perform tasks, rather than the diagnosis itself.

What Qualifies as a Change of Circumstances?

A change in circumstances refers to any significant change in a claimant’s health, mobility, or personal situation that could affect their eligibility for PIP.

Some of the most common reasons to report a change include:

• A worsening condition that leads to increased difficulties with daily activities or mobility.
• An improvement in health that reduces the need for assistance.
• A new medical diagnosis that affects a claimant’s daily life.
• A change in mobility needs, such as the need for a wheelchair or mobility aid.
• Moving into a care home or hospital for an extended period.
• Moving abroad or changing address within the UK.

It is important to report these changes promptly, as failing to do so could result in overpayment, underpayment, or even penalties.

When Does a PIP Change of Circumstances Require Another Assessment?

Not every change in circumstances leads to a reassessment. However, if the change affects the level of support a claimant needs, the DWP may decide to conduct a reassessment.

Changes That May Lead to Reassessment

A reassessment is likely to be required in the following situations:

• If a condition worsens, making it harder for the claimant to perform daily tasks or move around independently. The DWP may need to review the claim to determine whether the claimant qualifies for a higher level of PIP.
• If a condition improves, reducing the need for support, the DWP may reassess the claim to determine whether the claimant is still eligible for PIP.
• If a claimant receives a new diagnosis that significantly impacts their ability to function, the DWP may conduct an assessment to evaluate how it affects their PIP entitlement.
• If mobility needs change, such as needing to use a wheelchair or no longer requiring mobility aids, this could impact eligibility for the mobility component.

Situations Where a Reassessment Might Not Be Necessary

Some changes do not require a reassessment, particularly if they do not affect the claimant’s eligibility.

These include:

• Administrative changes, such as updating an address, bank details, or contact information.
• Temporary changes in health, which do not have a long-term impact on daily living or mobility.

In these cases, the DWP may update the claimant’s records without requiring a full reassessment.

How to Report a Change in Circumstances for PIP?

Contacting the DWP

Changes in circumstances should be reported to the PIP helpline as soon as possible. Claimants can contact the DWP by phone, post, or through their online account if applicable.

• PIP Enquiry Line: 0800 121 4433
• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM

Completing the PIP Change of Circumstances Form

The DWP may require claimants to fill out a PIP change of circumstances form (PIP2 review form). This form allows claimants to provide details about how their condition has changed and how it affects their daily life.

Providing Supporting Medical Evidence

To support their claim, individuals should submit relevant medical documents, such as:

• Letters from doctors or specialists
• Hospital discharge reports
• Occupational therapy assessments
• Prescription details
• Statements from carers or family members

The more evidence provided, the stronger the case for the DWP to accurately reassess the claim.

What Happens After Reporting a Change?

Once a change is reported, the DWP will review the information and decide on the next steps.

Possible Outcomes

1. No change to PIP award: If the reported change does not affect the claimant’s entitlement, their PIP payments will continue as before.
2. Adjustment of PIP payments: If the claimant qualifies for a higher or lower rate due to the change, their payments will be updated accordingly.
3. Request for a new assessment: The DWP may decide that a reassessment is necessary to determine the claimant’s eligibility.

What to Expect in a PIP Reassessment?

Types of Assessments

If a reassessment is required, it will be conducted by an independent assessment provider, such as Independent Assessment Services (IAS) or Capita.

The type of assessment depends on the claimant’s circumstances and can include:

• Face-to-face assessments: conducted at an assessment centre or, in some cases, at home.
• Telephone or video assessments: introduced as an alternative to in-person assessments.
• Paper-based reviews: If there is sufficient medical evidence, the DWP may make a decision without requiring a physical assessment.

What Happens During an Assessment?

During the reassessment, the assessor may ask questions about:

• How the condition affects daily activities
• Mobility and transportation needs
• Medical history and treatment plans
• Assistance required for personal care or household tasks

The claimant should provide as much detail as possible and submit any additional medical evidence that may support their case.

Can You Challenge a PIP Reassessment Decision?

If a claimant disagrees with the outcome of a reassessment, they have the right to challenge the decision.

Steps to Appeal a PIP Decision

1. Mandatory Reconsideration: The claimant can request the DWP to review their decision within one month of receiving the outcome.
2. Tribunal Appeal: If the reconsideration is unsuccessful, the claimant can appeal to an independent tribunal, which will review the case and make a final decision.

Charities such as Citizens Advice, Disability Rights UK, and Scope can provide support and guidance throughout the appeals process.

Conclusion

Not all PIP changes in circumstances lead to a reassessment, but if the change significantly affects daily living or mobility, the DWP may require a new evaluation.

Reporting changes promptly ensures that claimants receive the correct level of financial support and avoid potential penalties. For further assistance, claimants can contact the DWP PIP helpline or seek advice from welfare rights organisations.

FAQs About PIP Change of Circumstances and Reassessments

How long does a PIP reassessment take?

A reassessment can take up to 16 weeks, depending on the case’s complexity and the availability of medical evidence.

Will my PIP stop if I report a change?

No, your PIP payments will continue during the review process unless the reassessment determines ineligibility.

Can I refuse a PIP reassessment?

Refusing a reassessment may result in your PIP payments being reduced or stopped. It is best to comply and provide supporting evidence.

Do I need to report temporary health changes?

No, you only need to report long-term or permanent changes that significantly impact your daily life or mobility.

What happens if I fail to report a change in circumstances?

Failing to report changes can lead to overpayment, penalties, or even fraud investigations by the DWP.

Can I still receive PIP if I move abroad?

In some cases, PIP can be paid if you move to certain European Economic Area (EEA) countries. Always inform the DWP before relocating.

Will my PIP be backdated if my condition worsens?

Yes, if your PIP award increases due to a worsening condition, payments are usually backdated to the date the change was reported.