Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit provided by the UK government to help with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability.
While PIP itself doesn’t change, it can open doors to additional financial support.
In this article, we’ll explore the various ways PIP claimants might be eligible for extra money.
What is PIP and How Does it Work?
PIP is designed to help with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability.
It’s broken down into two components:
- Daily Living Component: Covers the extra costs of daily living tasks, such as preparing food, managing medication, or communicating.
- Mobility Component: Helps with the extra costs of getting around.
The amount of PIP you receive depends on the severity of your condition and how it affects your daily life.
Can I Claim Extra Benefits with PIP?
Yes, receiving PIP can make you eligible for additional benefits.
These are often referred to as premiums and are added to your existing benefits. They include:
- Universal Credit: If you claim Universal Credit, receiving PIP can increase your payment.
- Housing Benefit: Your housing benefit might be increased if you receive PIP.
- Jobseeker’s Allowance: Similar to Universal Credit and Housing Benefit, PIP can boost your Jobseeker’s Allowance.
- Income Support: If you’re on Income Support, PIP can increase your payment.
- Working Tax Credit: PIP can qualify you for a higher amount of Working Tax Credit.
- Pension Credit: For pensioners receiving Pension Credit, PIP can lead to a higher payment.
You have to note that these premiums are only available if you receive the daily living component of PIP.
To claim these additional benefits, you’ll usually need to provide your PIP award letter to the relevant government department.
Will PIP Increase My Council Tax Reduction?
Another potential financial benefit of receiving PIP is a reduction in your council tax.
Many local authorities offer discounts to people with disabilities, and receiving PIP is often a qualifying criteria.
The exact amount of discount varies depending on your local council, so it’s advisable to contact them directly to inquire about your eligibility.
Can I Get a Car with PIP?
While PIP doesn’t directly provide a car, it can open doors to schemes that make car ownership more accessible.
The Motability scheme is a popular option for PIP recipients.
This scheme allows you to exchange your mobility component of PIP for a car, scooter, or wheelchair.
You must remember that eligibility for the Motability scheme depends on several factors, including your PIP award and medical condition.
Are There Any Other Discounts for PIP Claimants?
Several companies and organisations offer discounts to people with disabilities, including PIP claimants.
These discounts can cover a wide range of products and services, from travel to utilities.
It’s worth researching and exploring the available options.
Can I Get Help with Housing Costs with PIP?
In addition to council tax reductions, PIP recipients might be eligible for other housing-related support.
This could include:
- Adaptations to your home: If your home needs modifications to accommodate your disability, you might be eligible for grants or loans to cover the costs.
- Help with energy bills: Some energy suppliers offer discounts or support to customers with disabilities.
Can I Get Help with Travel Costs with PIP?
Depending on your mobility needs, you might be entitled to:
- Bus passes: If you qualify for the higher rate mobility component of PIP, you might be eligible for a bus pass.
- Train discounts: Some train companies offer discounts to disabled passengers.
Will PIP Affect My Other Benefits?
Receiving PIP shouldn’t affect your other benefits, such as Universal Credit or Jobseeker’s Allowance.
In fact, as I mentioned earlier, it can often increase your entitlement to these benefits.
Can I Claim Backdated PIP?
If you believe you were eligible for PIP in the past but didn’t claim, you might be able to claim backdated payments.
However, there’s a time limit for backdated claims, so it’s important for you to act promptly if you think you’re eligible.