DWP insider explains how people on PIP or Attendance Allowance can 'protect' payments

A former Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) employee has shared insider tips on how to protect your Personal Independence Payment (PIP). PIP has been one of the most talked-about benefits this year, amid claims the DWP could axe cash payments for a voucher or catalogue system.

Speaking out with advice for PIP claimants, a former DWP worker said: “With PIP, and in some cases Attendance Allowance, the claim is allowed for a certain period of time before it is reviewed, so it is handy to know what you put down on the original claim form."

Speaking to the Daily Record, a newspaper in Scotland, they went on to say: “One lady I helped with her PIP claim, I got her to keep a copy of her original claim, which made it easier for her to complete her PIP review form when the time came. Your medical condition can sometimes change from the date you submitted your original claim.”

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For Attendance Allowance claims, she added: “It is advisable to get all your medical evidence sorted out before you start completing the form.” She said: “Once you have catalogued your medical history required for the claim you are halfway there.”

The former DWP staffer also warned: “Do not try and complete the form in one sitting, as it can be mentally draining.” It is vital to keep the form so you “do not give any conflicting evidence when it comes to a review, which may give DWP reason to scrutinise your case further”.

She continued: “Also if your claim is disallowed by DWP and you seek help over this, the person looking at your case can see what you have put on the original form as to why it might have been disallowed.” Attendance Allowance helps with extra costs if you have a disability severe enough that you need someone to help look after you.