The four conditions PIP claimants likely to be awarded DWP long-term payments with review

According to the DWP's latest statistics, more than 1.6 million (44%) out of all 3.7 million PIP claimants have been awarded PIP for five years or more

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirmed that proposed plans to reform Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility will come into force in November 2026 for new and existing claimants.

The DWP also clarified that those already claiming PIP will only be impacted by the change following their next scheduled PIP review.

According to the latest data, more than 1.6 million (44 per cent) of all 3.7 million PIP claimants have been awarded PIP for five years or more.

According to the data, as of the end of January, some 1,610,698 people in England, Wales, Scotland - as well as those living abroad - have been granted an ongoing award for a disability, long-term illness, or physical or mental health condition.

Of those claiming PIP for a visual disease, over 65 per cent have been issued with an award for five years or more. Meanwhile, more than half of those claiming for general musculoskeletal conditions (50.8 per cent) such as arthritis, muscle or joint pain, have been given a longer award.

Those with neurological conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy are granted longer awards at a rate of 49.5 per cent.

If you are considering making a fresh PIP claim, it's crucial to note that award lengths vary and can last between nine months and up to 10 years, however, DWP data only records awards given up to 'five years or longer'.

The latest PIP Handbook clarifies that the decision maker will award Personal Independence Payment (PIP) based on how a claimant's health condition or disability impacts their daily life and independence. It notes: "The length of award will be based upon each claimant's individual circumstances."

DWP guidelines also highlight that most recipients will undergo regular reviews of their award, "regardless of the length of the award", to ensure they continue to get the right level of support. Some individuals will receive a fixed-term award for up to two years, which DWP confirms will not be subject to review if the claimant's health is expected to improve.

For ongoing awards with a 'light touch' review, DWP guidance states: "These claimants would not usually be expected to have a face-to-face assessment at review."

The 1.7 per cent annual increase means those on disability benefits will get between £29.20 and £187.45 weekly in the 2025/26 financial year, equating to £116.80 or £749.80 every four weeks.

Over the next year, this increment will lead to recipients on the highest awards getting an additional £9,747 in cash assistance. Importantly, the top amount of £749.80 assumes someone is receiving the highest possible award for both the daily living and mobility components.

Six health conditions that could qualify for a PIP award of five years or more.

It's crucial to note that individuals with various health conditions can receive a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for up to five years or even longer. The award is based on how the condition affects the claimant.

The following conditions have the highest percentage rate of five-year or longer awards given to claimants as of the end of January 2025:

• Visual disease
• Musculoskeletal disease (general)
• Neurological disease
• Respiratory disease
• Autoimmune disease (connective tissue disorders)
• Musculoskeletal disease (regional)