People on PIP warned 'simple error' will see them miss out on DWP payment

The Department for Work and Pensions has warned Personal Independence Payments (PIP) claimants could be missing out on millions due to a simple error. A new report from the government has shown that PIP claimants could be missing out on millions of pounds worth of benefits due to a simple mistake on their applications.

Personal Independence Payments are available to people with long-lasting illnesses, conditions or disabilities. Due to errors or omissions when detailing their circumstances, many individuals are missing out on substantial sums they're entitled to, falling into what's known as 'unfulfilled eligibility'.

Speaking to The Sun, Tom Farquhar, a benefits expert at the disability equality charity Scope, said "fear and distrust" towards the disability benefits system might be deterring people from updating their records and claiming what they're rightfully owed. He emphasized: "The DWP need to do more to ensure disabled people are getting all the money they're entitled to."

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A spokesperson for the DWP addressed the issue, stating to the media: "Our welfare system supports millions of people every year and our priority is [that] they receive all the support they are entitled to. We promote benefits through public communications campaigns and we encourage people to phone our PIP helpline for support with their claim and to report a change in their needs or circumstances."

Halide Kalfaoglu, one of Turn2us’s benefits experts says: “PIP claimants should report any changes in their condition e.g. if it gets better or worse or if the level of help, they need changes. These changes may affect the amount of PIP they receive.

“Claimants should also report any changes in their personal details, such as name, address, bank account details, GP or specialist. While these usually won't affect the amount of PIP they receive, they still need to be reported.

“Other important changes to report include:

• Traveling abroad

• Going into a hospital or a care home

• Going into prison or custody

“Claimants should also make sure to complete their PIP review form when they receive one.”