DWP Reviews 320,000 PIP Claims, Potential £5,000 Back Payments Await Eligible Claimants
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is currently reviewing over 320,000 Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims, with the potential for claimants to receive back payments averaging £5,000. This review follows a significant change in the assessment rules concerning the Daily Living component of PIP, particularly around the definition of "social support."
In July 2019, a Supreme Court ruling, commonly referred to as the 'MM' judgment, altered how the DWP interprets social support in face-to-face interactions and the timing of such support in PIP assessments. This ruling has led to the current review of PIP claims, dating back as far as April 2016, as it’s possible that many claimants may have been underpaid due to the previous interpretation.
The DWP has estimated that approximately 632,286 PIP cases will be reviewed throughout this year as part of this correction exercise. By March 31st, the DWP had already completed reviews of 219,080 claims, resulting in £142 million in arrears being paid out. With around 325,867 reviews still pending, many claimants could soon be seeing significant back payments.
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While the average arrears amount has been estimated at £5,200, reports from an online benefits advice forum suggest that some individuals have received back payments ranging from £3,000 to nearly £11,000. One forum member shared their experience of receiving a £5,000 back payment after their case was reviewed and their PIP award was upgraded to the enhanced rate. Following this, they received an additional £5,500 from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) after discovering they were entitled to more Working Tax Credit due to the historical error.
The potential for such life-changing payments has led to widespread interest, with the DWP stating that they will proactively contact around 279,903 claimants who may have been affected. However, claimants who believe they might be eligible are encouraged to reach out to the DWP directly to request a review.
It’s important to note that not all claims will be reviewed. The DWP will exclude cases where the enhanced rate of the Daily Living component of PIP has been continuously awarded since April 2016, or where a Tribunal has made a decision on a claim after that date.
For those who may have been underpaid, the MM judgment specifically affects the Daily Living part of the PIP assessment, where additional points for activities involving "prompting" or "social support" could significantly alter the amount of PIP awarded. This is particularly relevant for individuals who require the support of a mental health professional or a specific friend or relative to manage face-to-face interactions.
If your PIP claim falls under the categories being reviewed, this could be an opportunity to receive the benefits you are entitled to. With the ongoing reviews, it’s crucial to stay informed and proactive, ensuring you receive any payments you may have missed out on in the past.
For more information, claimants are encouraged to visit the official DWP website or seek advice from benefits forums and support groups. The DWP’s review process is ongoing, and those affected should keep an eye out for communication from the department in the coming months.
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