Charity launches new online ‘PIP Helper’ to assist people claiming up to £737 each month

Helping those most in need

A new online tool has been launched by Citizens Advice to help people claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP), a benefit that can provide up to £737 per month to those with long-term physical or mental health conditions and disabilities.

What is PIP Helper?

PIP Helper is a free, easy-to-use online tool that can help you understand whether you are eligible for PIP and how to make a claim. The tool includes a series of questions about your health condition or disability, and will then provide you with personalized advice on whether you should claim PIP, and if so, how to do so.

PIP Helper has been developed by Citizens Advice, a charity that provides free, confidential advice to people in the UK on a range of issues, including welfare benefits.

Why is PIP Helper important?

PIP is a vital benefit for people with long-term health conditions or disabilities.

It can help pay for the extra costs associated with your condition, such as:

• Mobility aids
• Home adaptations
• Care costs
• Transport costs

PIP can make a real difference to the lives of people with health conditions or disabilities, helping them to live more independently and to participate fully in society.

How do I use PIP Helper?

To use PIP Helper, simply visit the Citizens Advice website and click on the ‘PIP Helper’ link.

You will then be asked a series of questions about your health condition or disability.

Once you have answered all of the questions, PIP Helper will provide you with personalized advice on whether you should claim PIP, and if so, how to do so.

Who is eligible for PIP?

You may be eligible for PIP if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability that:

• Makes it difficult for you to do everyday activities
• Has lasted, or is likely to last, for at least 12 months
• Is not caused by substance misuse

You do not need to be registered as disabled to claim PIP.

How much PIP can I get?

The amount of PIP you can get depends on your level of disability or need for care and support.

There are two components to PIP:

• Daily living component: This helps with the extra costs of everyday living, such as getting dressed, eating and bathing.
• Mobility component: This helps with the extra costs of getting around, such as using public transport or driving a car.

You can get up to £737 per month for the daily living component, and up to £627 per month for the mobility component.

How do I claim PIP?

You can claim PIP by calling the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on 0800 917 2222, or by completing a claim form online.

You will need to provide the DWP with evidence of your health condition or disability, such as a letter from your doctor or a medical report.

The DWP will then make a decision on your claim.

What if my PIP claim is denied?

If your PIP claim is denied, you can appeal the decision.

You can do this by calling the DWP on 0800 917 2222, or by writing to the DWP at the address on your decision letter.

You will need to provide the DWP with your reasons for appealing, and any new evidence that you have.

Get help with your PIP claim

Citizens Advice can provide free, confidential advice on PIP claims.

You can get advice online, by phone, or in person at your local Citizens Advice bureau.

To find your local Citizens Advice bureau, visit the Citizens Advice website.