The Department for Work and Pensions has warned people who claim the personal independence payment (Pip) that they must alert the department when they're leaving the country for more than four weeks - even if it's a holiday.
Being out of the UK for that long "may affect the claimant’s entitlement to Pip," the benefit's handbook states. It goes on to say: "We will need to know the date the claimant is leaving the country, how long they are planning to be out of the country, which country they are going to and why they are going abroad."
This is listed under the subheading, "changes the claimant needs to report." Other changes claimants need to report include: changes to your daily living or mobility needs, entering hospital, entering a care home, imprisonment or custody, and personal details such as name, bank account, or address.
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Pip is a benefit for people with disabilities and long-term health conditions. It's designed to help them carry out their day-to-day activities, such as washing and cooking, as well as moving around.
It is not means-tested - you can claim Pip regardless of your income or working status. Instead, it is awarded based on your ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.
As of April 6, 2022, the rates will be as follows:
|
Lower weekly rate |
Higher weekly rate |
|
|---|---|---|
| Daily living part | £61.85 | £92.40 |
| Mobility part | £24.45 | £64.50 |
