The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to implement changes to the eligibility criteria and assessment processes for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) starting November 2026. These reforms aim to update the welfare system and will impact both new applicants and existing recipients of the benefit.
However, DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms has clarified that individuals at or above State Pension age will not be affected by these changes. As of April 2024, data shows approximately 608,346 people aged between 65 and 79 currently receive PIP. Many nearing the State Pension age of 66 are granted awards lasting up to 10 years, providing them with extended stability and support, according to reports by the Daily Record.
In response to a query by Labour MP Paula Barker regarding how the revisions might impact pensioners, Sir Stephen detailed: “The new eligibility requirement for PIP, where claimants must achieve a minimum of four points in a daily living activity to qualify for the daily living component, will apply solely to new claims and award reviews from November 2026, pending parliamentary approval.” Crucially, he reiterated that “people of State Pension Age are not routinely fully reviewed and will not be affected by the proposed changes,” consistent with current policy.
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Further analysis and information on the impact of related proposals, such as those in the Pathways to Work Green Paper, will be disclosed in due course. Some preliminary data was shared in the Government’s Spring Statement in March.
In separate correspondence with Independent MP Apsana Begum, Sir Stephen emphasized that there will be no alterations to the fast-track system for those nearing the end of life. Recognizing the vulnerability of these individuals, the Minister assured that the existing fast-track and enhanced support for people with 12 months or less to live will continue uninterrupted. “We will maintain the current process where claims are settled within two working days under the Special Rules for End of Life,” he said, affirming that this pathway remains exempt from the new eligibility requirements.
Alongside these developments, the DWP has launched an online consultation open to the public, inviting feedback on the proposed PIP reforms. The consultation will remain open until June 30, 2025, allowing individuals and stakeholders to contribute to the shaping of these policies.