Six PIP changes you do not need to report to the DWP

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit for people aged 16 and under the State Pension age who need extra help with daily tasks or mobility due to a long-term illness, disability, or mental or physical health condition.

Successful PIP claims are now valued between £29.20 and £187.45 per week, which translates to approximately £116.80 or £749.80 over a four-week pay period. The disability benefit aims to offset the additional expenses associated with living with a disability, long-term illness, or physical or mental health condition.

While many claimants may be aware of the list of changes in circumstances that must be reported to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to ensure consistent payments, there are several changes that do not need to be declared, reports the Daily Record.

Since PIP is not means-tested and can be paid regardless of whether the claimant is working or not, there's no need to inform the DWP if you:

• Are made redundant
• Leave a job
• Take retirement
• Change roles at work - unless the amount of help you need has changed
• Stop claiming other benefits
• Start a new job

However, according to guidance on the GOV.UK website, you must get in touch with the PIP enquiry line if:

• You go abroad (for more than four weeks)
• The help you need or your condition changes
• Your personal details change - for example, your name, address or doctor
• Your condition has worsened and you’re not expected to live more than six months
• You go into hospital or a care home
• You are imprisoned or held in detention

The GOV.UK website cautions: "You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances."

Therefore, it's crucial to update your details promptly if you've recently moved house or changed your GP.

Before contacting them, make sure you have your National Insurance number, bank account details, and your GP's name and address ready to confirm your identity.

• Telephone: 0800 121 4433 (option 5)
• Textphone: 0800 121 4493
• Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 121 4433
• Video relay service for British Sign Language (BSL) users - check you can use the service here.