How PIP actually works in 2026/27. What the points really mean. The DWP statistics most people never see. And — if your decision was wrong — a Mandatory Reconsideration letter you can post tomorrow. Free. No login. Nothing stored.
The DWP no longer takes new PIP claims in Scotland. The benefit here is Adult Disability Payment, delivered by Social Security Scotland — the rates are the same, but you apply to a different government. Existing PIP awards in Scotland were transferred automatically.
Apply or ask for help at mygov.scot or call Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222.
Challenging a decision is different too. There is no Mandatory Reconsideration — you ask for a re-determination (usually 42 days from the decision letter for Adult Disability Payment), and if you are still unhappy you appeal to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (31 days from the re-determination letter). You cannot appeal without asking for a re-determination first. The Mandatory Reconsideration letter generator below is for DWP decisions (England, Wales and Northern Ireland). See our challenge guide.
DWP’s own published statistics show roughly half of new PIP claims are awarded at the first decision. Of those rejected, around 70% of cases that reach a tribunal succeed. That gap is huge. If your decision letter doesn’t feel right, the appeal process is not a long shot — it’s the route most successful claimants take.
PIP has two components: Daily Living and Mobility. Each pays at standard or enhanced rate. From April 2026:
PIP is tax-free and not means-tested. It does not stop you working. It can unlock Carer’s Allowance for someone caring for you, Council Tax reduction, Blue Badge, and the Motability Scheme (if you get enhanced Mobility).
PIP is decided on points. You need 8 points for the standard rate of either component, 12 points for the enhanced rate. The activities below carry the scores. The bit DWP rarely explains: you should be scored on what you can do reliably, repeatedly, safely, in a reasonable time. If you can only do something with pain, only sometimes, only with help, or only by paying for it in exhaustion afterwards — that’s the descriptor that counts. Not your best day.
First-decision letter looks wrong? Before you can appeal, the DWP requires a Mandatory Reconsideration (MR). You have one month from the date on the decision letter. Sorted drafts a calm, structured request you can post or call in. No login. Nothing sent to us.
PIP is hard. You don’t have to do it alone. These services are free, confidential, and have helped tens of thousands of people through PIP.
Also see: PIP assessment — what to expect & how to prepare · PIP award reviews (AR1)
Draft the Mandatory Reconsideration, find money you may also be missing, or get free human help. Free. Sourced to DWP + Welfare Reform Act 2012. No login.
Sourced to DWP · SSCS Tribunal · Welfare Reform Act 2012 · Citizens Advice 0800 144 8848