The latest figures released by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that on January 31, 2022 there were 2.9 million people across the UK claiming support through Personal Independence Payments (PIP), with just over one in three claimants (35%) receiving the highest level of award.
Of that total, 305,279 Scots are now receiving financial support of between £23.70 and £152.15 each week, an increase of 8,088 from the previous figure of 297,213 in October, 2021.
However, the data also reveals that the average end-to-end processing time for new PIP claims or for those transferring from Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to the benefit may take up to 22 weeks.
Despite the long wait for your first payment, that should not put anyone who thinks they may be eligible for the additional financial support from making a claim.
The benefit is paid into a bank or building society account every four weeks in arrears, which means you could receive regular payments of between £94.80 and £608.60.
And now, Benefits and Work have created a new online payment calculator which works out how much PIP you might be awarded, when a decision is finally made.
The handy tool also allows you to work out how much you could be paid if you get an award for the first time or if your award is increased following a review.
The independent benefits and advice forum explained: “It can calculate up to April 2023 and also goes back to April 2017, just in case you are looking at a backdated award because of a change in the law.”
Something which may be useful to people following the DWP announcement of changes to PIP law from August 21, 2020.
The DWP is reviewing some PIP claims made by deaf or hearing impaired people who may be affected by an Upper Tribunal decision relating to washing or bathing safely.
New guidance on GOV.UK confirms that the DWP will be reviewing claims made on or after August 21, 2020 including those where PIP was not awarded.
To use the Benefits and Work PIP payment calculator simply fill in the start date for the new or revised award and the date on which you expect to be paid.
Then select the level of the daily living and mobility components that you expect to receive.
The estimated award is then calculated and displayed within seconds.
To find out more, or give it a go on the Benefits and Work website here.
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