The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has identified six groups of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants most likely to receive long-term awards, often lasting five years or more. These awards reflect the individual impact of each claimant’s health condition on their daily life.
DWP data shows that over 1.5 million, or 39%, of the 3.8 million PIP claimants currently have awards extending for five years or longer. Notably, over 58% of claimants with visual impairments receive monthly payments up to £749 for a period of five years or beyond.
PIP eligibility spans a range of health conditions, with award lengths depending on how significantly the condition affects the claimant. The groups with the highest percentage of long-term awards as of July 2025 include those with visual impairments and other serious conditions.
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Recent statistics reveal that as of 30 April 2025, there were 3.7 million PIP claimants in England and Wales, marking a 2% increase since January 2025. Of these, 37% received the highest level of award, consistent with figures from earlier in the year. Scotland recorded an additional 3,000 claimants entitled to PIP at the same date.
For claimants whose award lasts two years or less, the DWP typically does not conduct a review. Instead, claimants receive a reminder about three months before their award ends, encouraging them to submit a new claim. It is advisable to apply for a new claim up to six months in advance, as processing can be time-consuming.
In certain cases, after 10 years, the DWP may perform a ‘light touch’ review using an AR2 form to assess ongoing eligibility.