The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced it has revised rates for various disability benefits, marking an increase in Personal Independence Payment (PIP) rates for 2024.
This adjustment is expected to provide additional financial support to millions of recipients amid the rising cost of living.
Starting from April 2024, monthly PIP payments will see a significant rise of 6.7 per cent in the upcoming financial year. This adjustment encompasses benefits such as Personal Independence Payments (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and Attendance Allowance.
The decision to increase these benefits aligns with the September consumer price index (CPI) inflation figure and was initially disclosed in the autumn statement released last November.
This measure aims to alleviate financial strain for many vulnerable households, assisting them with the additional expenses associated with long-term illness, disability, or mental health conditions.
This adjustment was ratified during Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement, which also included enhancements to the carers allowance and an increase in the National Living Wage.
The recent PIP increases are still dwarfed by the increases in thestate pension. The Chancellor has said thatthe state pension will rise by £900 this year– more than double inflation as a result of the government’s commitment to the pensiontriple lock.
How much is PIP increasing in April?
Starting from April 2024, Monthly PIP payments are scheduled to rise by 6.7 percent. However, the impact of this increase varies significantly depending on individual circ*mstances. PIP payments are divided into two components: Standard Living and Mobility.
For those eligible for the enhanced rate for Standard Living, designed for individuals with more severe disabilities, the weekly payment will increase to £108.55, up by £6.80 from the previous £101.75 in the 2023-24 financial year.
Claimants receiving the standard rate for Standard Living will see their payment increase by £4.55, from £68.10 to £72.65.
Those receiving the Enhanced Rate for Mobility will experience a £4.75 increase, with payments rising from £71 to £75.75.
Claimants entitled to the Standard Rate for Mobility will witness a daily increase of £1.80, from £26.90 to £28.70.
Who receives PIP?
To qualify for PIP you must be at least 16 years old, while the amount is not subject to means-testing and does not count towards the benefit cap, meaning eligibility for PIP is not determined by your income, savings, or employment status.
You may receive PIP if you need help with some of the following tasks or activities:
- Preparing food;
- Eating and drinking;
- Managing your medicines or treatments;
- Washing and bathing;
- Using the toilet;
- Dressing and undressing;
- Reading;
- Managing your money;
- Socialising and being around other people;
- Talking, listening and understanding;
- Working out a route and following it;
- Physically moving around;
- Leaving your home.
If you’re residing in Scotland, some of the information mentioned above may not be applicable to you. Instead, Scottish residents should consider applying for the adult disability payment (ADP), which operates under a distinct set of regulations compared to PIP.
To establish eligibility for ADP, you will undergo an assessment conducted by a qualified professional who will evaluate your circ*mstances and determine the outcome of your claim.
You can initiate your application process either by phone or by post. In certain regions of the UK, there is also the option to complete your application entirely online.
You can find a list number and additional information here.
