Glossary · UK
What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?
A tax-free benefit for people aged 16 to State Pension age with a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability, paid regardless of income, savings or employment status.
Full Definition
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit that helps with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability. It has two components -- a daily living component and a mobility component -- each paid at a standard or enhanced rate depending on how much help is needed, so an award can range from one component at the standard rate up to both components at the enhanced rate. For 2026/27 the daily living component is £76.70 (standard) or £114.60 (enhanced) per week, and the mobility component follows a similar standard/enhanced structure, uprated each April in line with CPI inflation. PIP replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for working-age claimants from 2013, and entitlement is assessed via a points-based functional assessment (often including a face-to-face or telephone consultation) rather than by diagnosis alone, meaning two people with the same condition can receive different awards depending on how the condition actually affects their daily activities and mobility. PIP is not affected by earnings or savings, can be claimed while in full-time work, and can passport claimants to other help such as a Blue Badge, the Motability scheme, or additional elements within Universal Credit.