DWP PIP claimants can now access a range of freebies worth up to £150
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants may be eligible for extra support in addition to financial assistance. PIP serves as a gateway benefit that opens up opportunities for various types of support. The benefits you are entitled to often depend on your PIP rate. Despite this, many claimants are unaware of the numerous freebies they could receive along with their PIP payments. Some of these perks need to be actively claimed, while others are automatically provided based on individual circumstances. In some cases, claimants may be eligible for support packages worth more than £152.
Blue Badge
Individuals who claim PIP may be entitled to a blue badge or disabled badge. These badges allow holders to utilise designated disabled parking spaces that are typically larger and closer to entrances. Additionally, the badges may exempt your vehicle from certain parking restrictions. To qualify for a blue badge, your disability should impact your mobility or ability to walk. Providing a PIP award letter as evidence can support your application. While some councils may charge for a blue badge, the fee is usually no more than £10 according to Lottie, a comparison site for residential care and independent living.
Capped Water Bills
PIP recipients might be eligible for the WaterSure Scheme if they or someone in their household requires significant water usage due to a medical condition. To qualify, your property must have a water meter installed. As the scheme is managed by individual water suppliers, it is essential to verify your eligibility criteria and the support offered by your provider.
Council Tax Discounts
Individuals receiving the daily living or mobility component of PIP may qualify for council tax discounts. The discount percentage varies depending on personal circumstances and can reach up to 100%. Shockingly, 2.8 million people fail to claim their entitled discounts, resulting in £2.7 billion in unclaimed savings annually, as reported by Lottie.
Disability Premium
The Disability Premium is an additional government benefit for individuals below Pension Credit age who claim certain benefits. This weekly income supplement ranges from £19.55 to £152.80 based on living situations and disabilities.
Disabled Facilities Grant
This grant aims to assist in modifying and adapting your home to meet your specific needs. Eligible modifications may include building extensions, widening doorways, or adjusting kitchen worktop heights. Grants of up to £30,000 are available in England and £25,000 in Wales, with specific criteria and application processes in place.
Days Out Discounts
Possessing a PIP award certificate can streamline the process of claiming discounts and concessions on tickets for various events and attractions. Partners include the UK Cinema Association, Merlin Entertainment attractions, and National Trust venues.
The Purpl Disabled Discount Programme
Purpl is a program designed to identify discounts that individuals may be entitled to, but are unaware of. By verifying your disability status with a disability benefits letter, you can unlock exclusive discounts on items ranging from disability aids to fashion and technology.
Free Prescriptions
Claimants with certain medical conditions qualifying for PIP may be eligible for free prescriptions, such as those related to diabetes or epilepsy. To apply for a medical exemption certificate online, visit the NHS Business Services Authority website or consult your local pharmacy.
Vehicles
Individuals entitled to the enhanced rate of mobility component for PIP with at least 12 months remaining on their allowance can allocate some benefits towards acquiring a new accessible car, scooter, or powered wheelchair through the Motability Scheme, which offers over 2,000 options inclusive of insurance, tax, and servicing.
Toll Discounts
Claiming the enhanced rate of mobility component can also result in toll and congestion charge discounts on selected routes like river crossings, bridges, and tunnels.
Transport Discounts
Access free local bus travel through the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme or discounted rail services with the Disabled Person’s Railcard using the Disabled Person’s Travelcard.
Vehicle Tax Reduction
Claimants receiving the enhanced or standard rate of the mobility component can benefit from a 50% reduction in vehicle tax. Depending on your regular tax bill, this reduction could save you over £1,000 annually. To qualify, the individual must have the vehicle registered in their name or be the nominated driver.
This comprehensive range of benefits aims to support PIP claimants and enhance their quality of life by providing financial assistance and practical resources to accommodate their specific needs.