1. Start Your Claim

You can begin your Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claim in one of three ways:

• Online via the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) website
• By post – request a paper questionnaire
• By phone – request the questionnaire to be sent to you

DWP Contact Number: 0800 121 4433

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2. Information Needed When You Call or Apply Online

You will be asked to provide:

• Your personal details and National Insurance number
• Your bank or building society account details
• Your GP or other health professional’s contact details
• Your nationality and details of any time spent abroad (longer than 4 weeks)

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3. Completing the Questionnaire

Once you receive the questionnaire (PIP2 form), you must return it within one calendar month from the date on the accompanying letter. You can request an extension if you need more time.

The PIP2 form asks how your condition affects your ability to:

• Prepare and eat food
• Manage personal care (washing, dressing, using the toilet)
• Communicate and read
• Manage medication or treatments
• Make decisions about money
• Engage with other people
• Plan and follow journeys
• Move around

The form is detailed and can feel lengthy, so it is advisable to complete it gradually.

If completing the form worsens your condition, or if you need assistance, make this clear on the form.

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4. Supporting Evidence

Inform your healthcare professionals that you are making a PIP claim and request supporting evidence where possible.

Helpful evidence may include:

• Medical reports or letters
• A short daily diary explaining how your condition affects you
• Letters from friends or family members who support you

Medical evidence alone does not guarantee an award. However, evidence clearly explaining how your condition affects your daily living and mobility can strengthen your claim.

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5. Sending Your Questionnaire

Once completed:

• If using a paper form, send your questionnaire and supporting evidence by Royal Mail Guaranteed Next-Day Delivery, and keep copies of everything you send.
• If completing the form online, you can upload your supporting evidence directly with your application.

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6. Assessment

After receiving your questionnaire, the DWP will review your claim.

In most cases, you will be invited to attend an assessment carried out by an independent health professional. This may take place:

• In person
• By telephone
• By video call

Prepare by reviewing your PIP2 form and supporting evidence. PIP is awarded based on how your condition affects your daily living and mobility, not on the diagnosis of a condition(s) itself.

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7. Decision and Appeals

The DWP will usually contact you within 8–10 weeks with a decision.

If you are not awarded PIP, you can request a Mandatory Reconsideration.

If your Mandatory Reconsideration is rejected and you are still dissatisfied with the outcome, you have the right to submit an appeal to the First tier tribunal.

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Our Support

PIP Help CIC is here to support you throughout the application process and beyond.

We encourage claimants to submit their own PIP claim wherever possible. However, if you require practical support or representation, we are happy to assist in any way we can.