What to Expect During a PIP Review: How to Prepare and What You Need to Know
If you’ve been awarded Personal Independence Payment (PIP), it’s important to remember that your award isn’t permanent. After a certain period of time, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will review your PIP award to determine if you’re still eligible and whether the level of support you’re receiving should change.
The idea of a PIP review can feel stressful, but it’s simply a way for the DWP to ensure that your situation hasn’t changed. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a PIP review, how to prepare for it, and how PIP Ready can help make sure the process goes smoothly.
Step 1: Why Is a PIP Review Necessary?
Once you’re awarded PIP, the DWP will typically review your award periodically to check whether your circumstances have changed. Reviews are a normal part of the process, and they don’t necessarily mean that your benefits will be reduced or removed.
There are several reasons why a review might occur:
Your condition may have improved: If your health or disability has improved, the DWP may reassess whether you still meet the eligibility criteria for PIP.
Your condition may have worsened: If your health has deteriorated, the DWP may consider whether you’re entitled to a higher rate of benefit.
The DWP’s review of your case: As part of their routine procedure, the DWP may review your claim to ensure you’re receiving the correct amount of support.
If your PIP review results in a change to your award, you may receive a higher or lower payment, or even face the loss of your entitlement. This is why it’s essential to be prepared.
Step 2: What Happens During a PIP Review?
During a PIP review, the DWP will reassess your current situation. Here’s what you can expect:
You’ll Receive a Review Form: The DWP will send you a review form asking for updated information about your condition, how it affects your daily life, and any changes since your last assessment. This form is very similar to the original PIP claim form you filled out when you first applied.
Answering Questions About Your Condition: You’ll be asked about how your condition impacts your ability to perform daily tasks and move around. You may be asked whether your condition has improved or worsened since your last assessment.
The key areas covered will include:
Daily Living (e.g., cooking, washing, dressing)
Mobility (e.g., walking, using mobility aids)
Be as detailed and accurate as possible when answering these questions. Even if you’re doing better, it’s still important to explain how your condition affects you on a regular basis.
Supporting Evidence: Along with your review form, you may need to submit additional medical evidence or statements from your healthcare professionals to support your answers. This could include updated GP reports, specialist letters, or any new treatment plans.
Potential for a Face-to-Face Assessment: In some cases, the DWP may request a face-to-face assessment with a PIP assessor to gather more information about your condition and how it affects your daily life. However, face-to-face assessments are not always required—many reviews are based purely on the information you provide in the review form.
Step 3: How to Prepare for a PIP Review
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful PIP review. Here’s how to ensure you’re ready:
Review Your Current Award: Before filling out the review form, take a moment to review your previous PIP award decision and consider how your condition has changed. Reflect on whether your ability to perform certain tasks has improved, stayed the same, or worsened.
Gather Supporting Evidence: Make sure you have the latest evidence to back up your answers. This may include:
Medical reports from your doctor or specialist.
Details of any treatments or medication you’re currently taking.
Statements from caregivers or family members who assist you with daily tasks.
Mobility aids or equipment you’re using.
Complete the Review Form Thoroughly: Be detailed in your responses. Don’t just answer “yes” or “no” to questions—explain the impact of your condition on your daily life. The more detailed and accurate your answers, the better the DWP will understand your needs.
Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about anything on the form or need assistance filling it out, don’t hesitate to get help. PIP Ready is here to guide you through the process and make sure your review form is completed accurately.
Step 4: How PIP Ready Can Support You During a PIP Review
At PIP Ready, we know how overwhelming a PIP review can be. Here’s how we can help:
Guidance Through the Review Form: We’ll help you understand what the DWP is asking in the review form and guide you through the process of answering each question in the most effective way. Our team knows exactly what information assessors are looking for, so we’ll help you provide the strongest responses.
Assist with Gathering Evidence: We’ll help you gather and organize all the necessary supporting documents and evidence. Whether it’s getting medical letters or testimonials from people who help care for you, we’ll ensure you have everything you need to make your case.
Review Your Form Before Submission: Once you’ve completed your review form, we’ll review it to ensure everything is filled out correctly and thoroughly. We’ll check that you haven’t missed any critical information and that your evidence is clear and relevant.
Advocate on Your Behalf: If you need further assistance, we can contact the DWP on your behalf, ensuring that they have all the necessary documentation and information.
Prepare You for a Face-to-Face Assessment: If you’re asked to attend a face-to-face assessment, we’ll help you prepare for the meeting by advising you on what to expect, what questions to expect, and how to present your case in the best possible way.
Step 5: What to Do If Your Review Results in a Change
If your PIP review results in a change to your award (either an increase or decrease in benefits), you can choose to:
Accept the new decision.
Request a Mandatory Reconsideration if you disagree with the decision.
If the decision is reduced or you lose your award, PIP Ready can assist you with the Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) process and help you gather any new evidence that may support your case.
Final Thoughts
A PIP review doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With the right preparation and support, you can navigate the review process with confidence. By understanding what to expect and ensuring your information is accurate and thorough, you can improve your chances of maintaining or even increasing your PIP award.
At PIP Ready, we’re here to help you through every stage of the review process. From completing the review form to gathering evidence and advocating on your behalf, we’ll ensure that you have the best chance of success.
Contact us today to get the help you need with your PIP review—we’re here to make the process easier for you.
