People who claim Personal Independence Payments must report changes in their circumstances - but there are some things you don't need to declare.
PIP is a benefit for anyone over 16 and under State Pension age who needs extra help with daily living tasks or getting around as a result of a long-term illness, disability or mental or physical health condition. While many claimants may be aware of the list of changes in circumstances that must be reported to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to continue receiving uninterrupted payments, there are several changes that do not need to be declared.
PIP is not a means-tested benefit and can be paid whether the claimant is working or not, reports the Daily Record. So there is no need to inform the DWP if you:
Read More: DWP benefits you cannot claim when you reach State Pension age - full list
- Start a new job
- Stop claiming other benefits
- Change roles at work - unless the amount of help you need has changed
- Leave a job
- Are made redundant
- Take retirement
However, guidance on the GOV.UK website states that you must contact the PIP enquiry line if:
- Your personal details change - for example, your name, address or doctor
- The help you need or your condition changes
- Your condition has worsened and you’re not expected to live more than six months
- You go into hospital or a care home
- You go abroad
- You are imprisoned or held in detention
The GOV.UK website goes on to warn: “You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances.” So, if you have recently moved home or switched to a new doctor, don't put off reporting the change.
How to report a change of circumstances to DWP
Before making the call you will need your National Insurance number, bank account details and GP name and address in order for the DWP to verify your identity. The busiest times to call are on Mondays and weekday evenings between 4pm and 5pm. Calls after 10am, Tuesday to Friday usually have a shorter hold time.
The PIP enquiry line is on:
Telephone: 0800 121 4433
Textphone: 0800 121 4493
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 121 4433
Video relay service for British Sign Language (BSL) users - check you can use the service here.
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