Big changes are coming to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in November 2026—but before we get there, all current and future claimants need to know the updated payment rates, award types, and eligibility rules for April 2025.
If you’re receiving PIP or thinking about applying, this guide breaks it all down, including how you could receive up to £749.80 every four weeks.
Overview
PIP is a financial support system designed to help people aged 16 or over who struggle with daily living or getting around due to a long-term health issue. It’s not based on income or savings—it’s about how your condition affects your life.
So, what’s changing now and what’s coming in 2026? Let’s look in.
Payments
As of April 2025, a 1.7% increase has boosted PIP rates. Here’s what you could receive each week, depending on your level of need:
| Component | Standard Rate | Enhanced Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £72.65 | £108.55 |
| Mobility | £29.20 | £64.80 |
If you qualify for both components at the enhanced rate, your total comes to:
- £187.45 per week
- £749.80 every four weeks
- £9,747 annually
That’s a meaningful level of support for those who qualify—but you need to meet strict criteria.
Eligibility
To claim PIP in 2025, you must:
- Be 16 or older (but under State Pension age)
- Have lived in the UK for at least 2 of the last 3 years
- Expect your condition to last at least another 9 months
It’s not just about having a diagnosis. You must show how your condition affects your daily life or ability to move around. Common struggles include:
- Preparing or eating meals
- Managing medication
- Bathing, dressing, or using the toilet
- Moving from place to place
- Engaging socially or making financial decisions
Awards
Not all PIP awards are the same. Depending on your situation, you may get:
- Limited-Term Awards (e.g., 2 years): These are for conditions likely to improve.
- Ongoing Awards with Light-Touch Reviews: For chronic or terminal illnesses, reviews happen every 10 years and may not involve another face-to-face assessment.
Long-term Awards
Here’s what DWP data says (as of Jan 2025):
| Condition Type | % Receiving Awards Over 5 Years |
|---|---|
| Visual impairments | 58% |
| Neurological conditions | 50%+ |
| Musculoskeletal issues | 50%+ |
That means many people with long-term conditions are not being reassessed frequently.
Changes
Come November 2026, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) plans to tighten the system for new claimants. If you’re already getting PIP, you’ll only face the new rules when your award is up for review after that date.
Key reforms will include:
- Tougher eligibility tests
- Revised assessment criteria
- Possibly shorter review cycles
These changes are intended to make the system more accurate and sustainable, but they may also make it harder to qualify.
Application
To apply in 2025:
- Call the PIP claim line (number on gov.uk)
- Be ready to provide:
- National Insurance number
- Date of birth
- Bank account info
- GP or other health provider details
You can also find everything you need to apply at: www.gov.uk/pip
Once approved, payments are made every four weeks. If you have a terminal illness, you can opt for weekly payments.
Scotland
If you live in Scotland, PIP has been replaced by the Adult Disability Payment (ADP). The rates and rules are very similar, but applications go through Social Security Scotland, not DWP.
Preparing
Thinking ahead to the 2026 changes? Here’s how to get ready:
- Check your award end date—when’s your next review due?
- Keep all medical documentation updated and organized
- Speak with a benefits advisor—Citizens Advice or Turn2Us are great places to start
If the new rules bring more frequent reviews or tighter checks, being prepared will be your best defense.
Navigating the PIP system isn’t always easy, but knowing the April 2025 rates and being ready for the 2026 reforms will help you stay in control of your benefits.
Whether you’re applying, renewing, or just keeping informed, take action now—because informed claimants are empowered claimants.
FAQs
What’s the max PIP benefit in 2025?
£749.80 every four weeks if eligible for both enhanced rates.
When will the PIP changes start?
New reforms begin in November 2026 for new applicants.
How often is PIP paid?
Every four weeks, or weekly for terminal cases.
Can I still apply for PIP in Scotland?
No, apply for Adult Disability Payment instead.
What affects PIP eligibility?
Daily challenges like moving, dressing, or managing medication.
