Hamilton
Many people in the UK live with reading difficulties or other long-term health problems that affect their daily life. What many may not know is that they could get extra financial help from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This support comes through the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) scheme, which provides up to £749 every four weeks.
This money can make a real difference in covering extra living costs, especially for those struggling with basic daily activities like reading, bathing, dressing, or cooking.
In this article, we explain what PIP is, who can apply, how much money you could get, and the step-by-step process to make a claim.
What Is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit from the UK Government designed to help people with long-term health conditions or disabilities. Unlike some benefits, PIP is not based on your diagnosis but on how much your condition affects your everyday life.
The focus is on how much support you need with daily tasks like:
- Reading and understanding written information
- Washing and bathing
- Eating and drinking
- Making money decisions
- Moving around
- Planning journeys or routes
- Managing treatments or medication
How Much Money Can You Get from PIP?
PIP has two parts (components) – Daily Living and Mobility. You may qualify for one or both depending on your situation.
Here’s the current PIP payment rates (2025):
| Component | Standard Weekly Rate | Enhanced Weekly Rate | Maximum 4-Week Cycle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £73.90 | £110.40 | |
| Mobility | £29.20 | £77.05 | |
| Maximum Total | – | – | £749 |
This means the highest weekly amount you can get is £187.45, which adds up to £749 every four weeks.
Who Can Apply for PIP?
You could be eligible if you:
- Have reading difficulties, a disability, or a long-term health condition.
- Struggle with daily activities such as bathing, eating, or managing money.
- Find it hard to move around or travel alone.
Eligibility is not about your medical diagnosis, but how your condition impacts your life.
How Are You Assessed?
When you apply for PIP, you will have an assessment. This assessment looks at:
- How much help you need with tasks.
- Whether you require assistance regularly.
- How your condition affects independent living.
Your assessment score decides whether you qualify for the standard rate or the enhanced rate.
How PIP Is Paid
- Most claimants are paid every 4 weeks.
- People with terminal illness may receive weekly payments for faster support.
- Money is sent directly into your bank, building society, or credit union account.
What You Need Before You Apply
When making a new PIP claim, you must provide:
- Your contact details (name, phone, address)
- Date of birth
- National Insurance number
- Bank account number and sort code
- Doctor or health worker’s details (name, address, phone)
- Dates and addresses of any time spent in a care home, hospital, or abroad
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for PIP
- Contact the DWP – Start your claim by phone (details available on GOV.UK).
- Provide your personal details – Share your National Insurance number and contact information.
- Fill out the PIP form – You’ll receive a form with questions about how your condition affects you.
- Attend an assessment – A health professional will check how much support you need.
- Receive a decision letter – DWP will confirm how much money you’ll get and when.
Why Apply for PIP?
Applying for PIP can provide:
- Extra financial stability for households.
- Support with extra costs of disability or health conditions.
- The chance to live more independently.
Many people with reading difficulties don’t realize they are eligible. If you or someone you know struggles with daily life tasks, it’s worth applying.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides vital support through Personal Independence Payment (PIP), offering up to £749 every four weeks.
This benefit is not about your medical diagnosis but about how much your condition affects your everyday life. Whether you struggle with reading, moving around, or daily care, this payment can give you the financial help you need.
If you think you qualify, make sure to apply early with all your details ready. It could make a real difference in living more independently and with less stress.
FAQs
Do I need a doctor’s diagnosis to claim PIP?
No. Eligibility is based on how your condition affects your daily life, not on having a specific diagnosis.
How often will I get PIP payments?
Most people are paid every four weeks, but those with terminal illness may receive weekly payments.
What is the maximum amount I can get from PIP in 2025?
You can get up to £187.45 per week, which equals £749 every four weeks.