A major update from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has revealed that changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system could lead to thousands of people losing financial support from November 2026.
The update introduces a new eligibility rule: from 2026, to qualify for the daily living part of PIP, claimants must score at least one ‘4-point rating’ in any activity. This change could exclude many current claimants, especially those scoring 2 points in multiple areas, despite needing help in daily life.
What Is PIP?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit designed to help with extra costs if you have a long-term disability or health condition. It has two parts:
- Daily Living Component (for everyday tasks like cooking, eating, or bathing)
- Mobility Component (for support with moving around)
Each part has two rates: a lower and a higher rate, depending on your condition.
What Is Changing?
Starting November 2026, the DWP will require that claimants score at least one activity at 4 points or more to qualify for the daily living component.
Currently, many claimants receive support by scoring 2 points in multiple areas. With the new rule, these individuals could lose their entitlement completely—even if they still need help.
How Much Could Claimants Lose?
The DWP estimates:
- 800,000 people may be affected
- They could lose an average of £4,500 a year
- This number was calculated by dividing the DWP’s projected £3.6 billion savings in 2029/30 by the number of impacted claimants
However, experts warn that the real loss could be much higher, especially with four more benefit increases expected before 2029 due to inflation.
Current annual PIP rates:
- Lower daily living rate: £3,842.80 per year (£73.90 per week)
- Higher daily living rate: £5,740.80 per year (£110.40 per week)
These amounts are likely to increase each year until 2029.
Why Are People Concerned?
Experts believe that the new rule might unfairly affect those who still have significant extra costs but don’t score the required 4 points in one area.
Rebecca Lamb from Money Wellness said:
“Disability-related costs can go well beyond just medical items. From mobility aids to extra heating, specialist equipment, and ongoing maintenance, many disabled individuals face bills up to £900 more per month than people without disabilities.”
What Help Is Available?
If you are affected:
- Reach out to local councils for support grants like the Household Support Fund
- Charities may also offer financial help
- Always keep records of your condition and extra costs in case your PIP is reviewed or cut
The government says it remains committed to protecting people with serious health conditions and plans to launch a new premium for those unable to work permanently.
The DWP’s new rule for PIP could leave many without crucial financial help starting November 2026. With possible yearly losses of £4,500 or more, claimants are urged to stay informed and explore alternative support options. This change highlights the need to plan ahead and understand your rights before the new rules take effect.
FAQ’s
What is the new PIP eligibility rule from 2026?
From November 2026, claimants must score at least one 4-point rating in a daily living activity to qualify for the daily living component of PIP.
How much could I lose under the new PIP rule?
The DWP estimates an average loss of £4,500 per year by 2029 for those affected, but the actual amount may be higher due to rising benefit rates.
Will I lose PIP if I score 2 points in multiple areas but not 4 in any one?
Yes, under the new rule, scoring 2s across several activities may no longer qualify you for the daily living component of PIP.
What support is available if I lose PIP due to this rule change?
You can apply for local council grants like the Household Support Fund or seek help from charities offering financial assistance for disabled individuals.
Is the government offering any replacement support?
The DWP has said it will introduce a new premium for those who are permanently unable to work, to continue offering support where needed.
For people who are on pip daily living only and are now state pensioners why hasn’t the government given those people the opportunity to leave pip and claim attendance allowance providing their condition has got worse, which is quite likely as they age, assuming that they qualify as they can’t go back to work in their 70’s.
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I Didnot get me pension @60 had 2 carry on until I bleed 2012 .until this year 66 now had a nasty bitter time true I’m now here waiting with the others that passed through Corvid corridors in one piece I say well done to them to see this age ty