MILLIONS suffering from long-term health conditions can get extra help through Personal Independence Payments (PIP).
But you might not be aware there are other benefits you can claim at the same time.
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PIP is worth up to £172.75 a week which adds up to nearly £9,000 a year, so it’s definitely worth seeing if you can claim it.
Here’s everything you need to know about the benefit.
What is PIP?
PIP is a Government benefit designed to cover the cost of everyday living if you’re suffering from a long-term health condition.
The benefit is split into two parts – you can be paid both depending on your circumstances.
The daily living part is designed to cover any difficulties you might have preparing or eating food, washing, bathing and more.
The weekly rate for the daily living part is either £68.10 or £101.75 – you can get both elements which adds up to £172.15.
Meanwhile, the mobility part is designed for those who need help after leaving home or moving around and is worth either £26.90 or £71.
You are assessed by a health professional to work out the level of help you can get and your rate is regularly reviewed to make sure you’re getting the right support.
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Payments are usually made every four weeks directly into your bank account and they’re tax-free.
Can I claim any other benefits while receiving PIP?
The simple answer is yes.
If you’re on certain benefits, you might be eligible for top-ups – what’s also known as a disability premium.
You can claim the top-ups while on the following benefits:
- Housing benefit
- Jobseeker’s allowance
- Income support
- Working tax credit
- Employment and support allowance
- Pension credit
The rules can be complicated so you should get in touch with the DWP or HMRC if you’re not sure what you can claim while on PIP.
You may need to send them a copy of your PIP award letter.
When you reach state pension age (currently 66) you may also be entitled to attendance allowance if you have health conditions.
Does PIP affect Universal Credit?
No. Receiving PIP or DLA does not affect the amount of Universal Credit the DWP pays you.
PIP and Universal Credit are two separate benefits, with PIP gradually replacing the Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
But you can claim both at the same time.
What grants can I get on PIP?
One of the great things about PIP is that it opens up a number of freebies, discounts and grants.
For example, anyone on the benefit can apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant if they need to make changes to their home to suit their needs.
You might need the grant to install something like a heating system, for example.
The amount you can get through the grant depends on whether you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.
The grants are not available for households in Scotland.
If you live in Wales you can get up to £36,000 worth of support, £30,000 in England and up to £25,000 in Northern Ireland.
You have to apply through your local council which must give you a decision within six months.
A number of national and local charities offer grants if you’re on benefits, including PIP, too.
Charity website Turn2Us has a grants search tool on its website which you can use.
Meanwhile, the Government has its own tool which you can use to find organisation offering help near you.
Can I work while claiming PIP?
Yes you can. PIP is designed to help with the extra costs associated with being sick or disabled, regardless of whether you’re working or not.
This means that how much you earn from a job won’t impact the PIP you receive.
You can also work part-time or full-time and claim PIP.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
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