DWP PIP latest for those making first time claim worth as much as £737 a month

Latest figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that as of the end of a total of 3.6 million people across England, Scotland and Wales were receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The newly-released data provides vital information for individuals with a long-term illness, disability, or mental or physical health condition, who are contemplating making a new claim for the additional financial support.

That extra support ranges between £28.70 and £184.30 each week. It's worth noting that 37 percent of all PIP claimants entitled receive the enhanced payment rates for both the daily living and mobility components.

It's also important to highlight that new PIP claims are being processed from the point of application to an award decision letter within 15 weeks. This suggests that those making a new claim this month could receive an outcome before the end of the year, although more complex cases may require a longer processing time, reports the Manchester Evening News.

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Who might be eligible for PIP?

To be eligible for PIP, you must have a health condition or disability where you:

• have had difficulties with daily living or getting around (or both) for 3 months

• expect these difficulties to continue for at least 9 months

You usually need to have lived in the UK for at least two of the last three years and be in the country when you apply. In addition to what we have outlined above if you get or need help with any of the following because of your condition, you should consider applying for PIP:

• preparing, cooking or eating food

• managing your medication

• washing, bathing or using the toilet

• dressing and undressing

• engaging and communicating with other people

• reading and understanding written information

• making decisions about money

• planning a journey or following a route

The DWP will assess how difficult you find daily living and mobility tasks. For each task they will look at:

• whether you can do it safely

• how long it takes you

• how often your condition affects this activity

• whether you need help to do it, from a person or using extra equipment

How is PIP paid?

PIP is usually paid every four weeks unless you are terminally ill, in which case it is paid weekly. It will be paid directly into your bank, building society or credit union account.

What are the PIP payment rates?

You will need an assessment to work out the level of financial help you will receive and your rate will be regularly reviewed to make sure you are getting the right support. PIP is made up of two components:

• Daily living

• Mobility

Whether you get one or both of these and how much depends on how severely your condition affects you. You will be paid the following amounts per week depending on your circumstances:

Daily living

• Standard rate: £72.65

• Enhanced rate: £108.55

Mobility

• Standard rate: £28.70

• Enhanced rate: £715.75

How you are assessed for PIP help

You will be assessed by an independent healthcare professional to help the DWP determine the level of financial support, if any, you need, for PIP. Face-to-face consultations for health-related benefits are offered alongside video calls, telephone and paper-based assessments - it's important to be aware that the health professional and DWP determine which type of assessment is best suited for each claimant.

How do you make a claim for PIP?

You can make a new claim by contacting the DWP, you will find all the information you need to apply on the GOV.UK website here. Before you call, you will need:

• your contact details

• your date of birth

• your National Insurance number - this is on letters about tax, pensions and benefits

• your bank or building society account number and sort code

• your doctor or health worker's name, address and telephone number

• dates and addresses for any time you've spent abroad, in a care home or hospital

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