What is the difference between the daily living and mobility parts of PIP?

Full answer

PIP is a benefit for people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term health condition or disability. It is split into two distinct components, each assessed separately through a points-scoring health assessment, and each payable at one of two rates - standard or enhanced. The daily living component covers difficulty with everyday activities: preparing and eating food, washing and bathing, dressing, managing medication or treatment, reading, mixing with others, and managing money. The mobility component covers two areas: planning and following a journey, and moving around physically. You score points against descriptors in each activity; reaching the lower threshold gives the standard rate and the higher threshold gives the enhanced rate. Because the two components are scored independently, the combinations vary. You might qualify for enhanced daily living but nothing for mobility, or standard mobility only, or both at enhanced. The enhanced mobility rate is also the gateway to the Motability Scheme, which lets you lease a car, scooter or powered wheelchair using your benefit. PIP is not means-tested - it does not depend on your income, savings or National Insurance record - and it is tax-free, so it does not appear on your tax return or affect your take-home pay calculations. It can be paid whether you work or not. The weekly rates for daily living and mobility, at both standard and enhanced levels, are set by the DWP and uprated each April; check the current 2026/27 figures on gov.uk rather than relying on older amounts, as benefit rates are not part of a fixed tax card. In Scotland the equivalent is Adult Disability Payment, which uses the same two-component structure. If your needs change, you can ask for a reassessment, and decisions can be challenged through mandatory reconsideration.