The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments and eligibility will come into effect from November 2026. These new rules will impact both new and existing claimants—except for most people who are already over State Pension age.
The update comes as part of the UK government’s wider welfare reform plan, called the ‘Pathways to Work Green Paper’.
What Are the Changes to PIP?
From November 2026, claimants will need to score at least four points in one daily living activity to qualify for the daily living component of PIP. This is in addition to the current eligibility rules.
Daily living activities include tasks like:
- Preparing food
- Washing and bathing
- Managing medications
- Communicating with others
- Making financial decisions
This rule aims to make assessments more consistent, but it may also affect who qualifies for help with daily living costs.
Will Pensioners Be Affected?
According to Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, people over State Pension age will not be routinely affected by these changes. That’s because:
- Most people who reach 66 years old receive a 10-year light-touch review instead of a full reassessment.
- People already getting PIP at pension age will continue receiving it, and their awards will be reviewed only if they report a change in condition.
So, unless someone over pension age asks for a reassessment, the new rules won’t apply to them.
PIP and Combined Income with State Pension
Many older people receive both the State Pension and PIP. In 2025/26, the full New State Pension pays £230.25 per week (£921 every 4 weeks), and the highest rate of PIP can add up to £749.80 per month. This means some pensioners could get a combined monthly income of £1,670.80 from both payments.
PIP Weekly Rates for 2025/26
Daily Living Component
Standard rate: £73.90
Enhanced rate: £110.40
Mobility Component
Standard rate: £29.20
Enhanced rate: £77.05
These payments are reviewed regularly based on your needs and how your condition affects your daily life.
Can You Still Apply for PIP at Pension Age?
You cannot make a new claim for PIP, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) once you reach State Pension age.
However, if you were already receiving one of these benefits before reaching pension age, you will continue getting them. You can also reclaim them if:
- You’re claiming for the same condition, and
- Your previous claim ended less than 12 months before reaching pension age.
If you’re over State Pension age and not receiving any of these benefits, you may be eligible for Attendance Allowance, which pays either £73.90 or £110.40 per week.
Who Can Apply for PIP?
To qualify for PIP, you must:
- Have a long-term health condition or disability
- Have had difficulties for at least 3 months
- Expect those difficulties to continue for at least 9 more months
- Be living in the UK for at least 2 of the last 3 years
You can apply if you need help with:
- Preparing food
- Bathing or using the toilet
- Getting dressed
- Taking medications
- Managing money
- Walking or moving around
- Communicating or understanding information
- Planning or following journeys
How to Apply
You can start a new PIP claim by contacting the DWP. Full details and guidance can be found on the GOV.UK website.
FAQs
What are the new PIP changes coming in 2026?
From November 2026, to qualify for the daily living component of PIP, claimants must score at least four points in one daily living activity, in addition to existing criteria.
Will pensioners be affected by the new PIP rules?
Most people over State Pension age will not be affected. They typically receive a 10-year light-touch review and are not routinely reassessed.
Can you apply for PIP after reaching State Pension age?
No. You cannot start a new PIP claim after reaching State Pension age. However, you may continue receiving PIP if you were already claiming it before turning 66.
What is the maximum monthly income from PIP and State Pension?
You could receive up to £1,670.80 monthly if you get both the full New State Pension and the highest PIP rates.
How do I report a change in condition to the DWP?
You must contact the PIP enquiry line or visit GOV.UK to report any changes. Your PIP award may increase, decrease, or stay the same depending on the outcome.
