Universal Credit is a single monthly payment that replaces a number of means-tested benefits and tax credits.
It is designed to help with living costs if you’re on a low income or out of work.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a non-means-tested benefit that helps with extra costs if you have a long-term health condition or disability.
It replaces Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for people of working age.
Do I Need to Tell Universal Credit About My PIP?
No, you don’t need to inform Universal Credit about receiving PIP.
Unlike other benefits, PIP is a non-means-tested benefit, meaning it doesn’t affect your Universal Credit entitlement.
Your Universal Credit payment will remain the same whether you receive PIP or not.
Will Receiving PIP Affect My Universal Credit?
Like I said, receiving PIP will not affect the amount of Universal Credit you receive. The two benefits are calculated separately.
However, note that if your health condition or disability changes and you become unable to work or face limitations in your ability to work, you may be eligible for additional support through Universal Credit, such as the Limited Capability for Work or Work-Related Activity Group.
Can I Claim Both PIP and Universal Credit?
Yes, you can claim both PIP and Universal Credit. They are separate benefits with different eligibility criteria.
There’s no conflict between claiming both.
Will My PIP Affect My Universal Credit Work Requirements?
Receiving PIP doesn’t automatically exempt you from Universal Credit work requirements.
The DWP will assess your individual circumstances to determine what work-related activities are suitable for you.
If your health condition or disability significantly limits your ability to work, you might be placed in the Support Group.
What If My PIP Award Changes?
If your PIP award changes, either increasing or decreasing, you don’t need to inform Universal Credit.
However, if your health condition or disability changes significantly, it might affect your Universal Credit claim.
In such cases, it’s advisable to contact the DWP to discuss your circumstances.
Can I Appeal My PIP Decision If I’m On Universal Credit?
Yes, you can appeal your PIP decision regardless of whether you’re on Universal Credit.
The appeals process for PIP is separate from your Universal Credit claim.
Will Receiving PIP Affect My Housing Benefit?
If you’re receiving Housing Benefit as part of your Universal Credit claim, getting PIP won’t affect your Housing Benefit entitlement.
Housing Benefit is calculated based on your rent and income, and PIP is not considered income for these purposes.
Can I Get Help With Costs If I Have Both PIP and Universal Credit?
There might be additional support available if you’re receiving both PIP and Universal Credit.
For example, you could be eligible for help with energy costs, council tax reduction, or other financial assistance.
You should check the eligibility criteria for these support schemes.
When Might Informing Universal Credit About PIP Be Useful?
If you’re claiming Universal Credit and have a health condition or disability that limits your ability to work, you might be eligible for additional support.
Informing Universal Credit about your PIP award could help strengthen your case for a Work Capability Assessment (WCA).
Universal Credit work also coaches can offer support and guidance.
Letting them know about your PIP could help them understand your circumstances better and provide appropriate assistance.
Some people prefer to be transparent about their financial situation. Informing Universal Credit about your PIP might give you peace of mind.
Will My PIP Affect My Council Tax Reduction?
PIP will not directly affect your Council Tax Reduction.
However, if your PIP award helps with mobility, it might indirectly impact your eligibility for other benefits that could influence your Council Tax Reduction.