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Parents & carers

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

PIP for adults — daily living and mobility components.

6 min read

Overview

Personal Independence Payment () is the adult equivalent of , for people aged 16+. It is tax-free and not means-tested.

Key points to understand

  • Two components: daily living and mobility; standard or enhanced rate each.
  • Eligibility is based on how the condition affects daily activities, not diagnosis.
  • Assessment is by Capita / Atos / Ingeus on behalf of DWP.
  • Mental Health Charter applies — including sensory and cognitive issues.

Practical strategies that help

  • Get help from Citizens Advice, Disability Rights UK, or Scope.
  • Describe needs on the worst days and how often.
  • Include all supporting evidence (medical, , employer, family).
  • Request a copy of the assessor's report after the assessment.

Common challenges to be aware of

  • Over 70% of appeals succeed — don't give up after initial refusal.
  • Mandatory Reconsideration → Tribunal appeal is the path.

How Bright Steps can help

Bright Steps brings together autistic people, families, carers and professionals across the UK. You can use the Community to talk to others who get it, save articles and activities to your Library, and explore Resources built for everyday life. Our Routines and Reward Charts turn ideas from this article into things you can try today.

💡 Tip: Bookmark this article using the Save button at the top so you can come back to it. Everything you save lives in your personal library under Saved.

References & further reading


✏️ This article will be expanded with rich, UK-specific content, case studies, video explainers and downloadable resources. If you'd like to contribute a story or suggest a correction, contact the Bright Steps editors via the Community page.

Check Your Understanding

Take a quick quiz to help build your confidence. This is not a test — it is just a simple way to learn one step at a time.

  1. Question 1When filling in disability benefit forms, applicants should:
  2. Question 2Useful examples include:
  3. Question 3Disability benefits are usually about:

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