The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a significant rule change that could result in back-payments for certain older individuals on Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This adjustment in legislation may allow individuals above state pension age to request a reassessment of their claim, potentially leading to a higher mobility award and retroactive payments. It is crucial to highlight that this rule revision exclusively pertains to claimants who have surpassed state pension age and are eligible for the enhanced mobility award.
The altered guidelines specifically apply to PIP claims that were reviewed between April 8, 2013, and November 20, 2020. The amendment stems from a tribunal ruling on May 22, 2020, which identified an inadvertent loophole in regulation 27 of the Social Security (Personal Independence Payment) Regulations 2013. The tribunal’s findings highlighted that the DWP lacked the legal authority to restrict the mobility award for individuals above state pension age who were receiving the standard rate of the award, based on new medical evidence.
Effective from November 30, 2020, changes have been implemented to rectify this oversight. The DWP has developed a dedicated page on GOV.UK to aid individuals in verifying their eligibility and seeking a review of their PIP claim if their mobility award was not increased due to reaching state pension age. Should the DWP have utilised a health professional’s report during the claim review, and if no alterations in mobility requirements were reported, claimants might be entitled to a higher mobility award.
The enhanced mobility rate stands at £75.75 per week for the current financial year, equating to £303 every four weeks. Apart from the financial benefits, securing an enhanced mobility award could also enable individuals to participate in the Motability Scheme to facilitate their mobility needs. It is essential to note that current PIP recipients will not experience a reduction in their award due to this change, as confirmed by the DWP.
To initiate the review process, interested individuals can contact the PIP inquiry line at 0800 121 6579 and reference the ‘Regulation 27 administrative exercise review’. Essential details, such as your National Insurance number, will be necessary for the review. Alternatively, enquiries can be made via post, with comprehensive instructions available on the GOV.UK website. Subsequent to the review, the DWP will determine if additional information is required to support the application, and if deemed eligible, recipients will receive any owed additional payments.
In conclusion, the DWP’s rule change regarding PIP assessments for older individuals highlights the importance of ensuring fair and accurate support for claimants. By addressing legislative gaps and providing avenues for reviews, the DWP aims to uphold the integrity of the welfare system and deliver rightful benefits to eligible recipients.