By Linda Howard
Copyright dailyrecord
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can be claimed by people over 16 and under State Pension age who need additional help with daily living tasks or getting around as a result of a long-term illness, disability or mental or physical health condition . The benefit has been replaced in Scotland by Adult Disability Payment (ADP) for new claimants, which follows similar eligibility guidelines as PIP. A successful claim for PIP or ADP is worth between £29.20 and £187.45 each week, some £116.80 or £749.80 every four-week pay period. Both disability benefits are designed to help with the additional costs of living with a disability, long-term illness, or physical or mental health condition. While many claimants may be aware of the list of changes in circumstances that must be reported to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or Social Security Scotland in order for them to continue receiving uninterrupted payments, there are several changes that do not need to be declared. PIP is not a means-tested benefit and can be paid whether the claimant is working or not, so there is no need to inform the DWP if you: However, guidance on the GOV.UK website states you must contact the PIP enquiry line if: The GOV.UK website goes on to warn: “You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances.” So, if you have recently moved home or switched to a new doctor, don’t put off reporting the change any longer – especially if you are on PIP living in Scotland as Social Security Scotland will use the information the DWP holds on you when you are transferred over to the new devolved benefits system. All Scots on disability benefits including Carer’s Allowance, Attendance Allowance and Disability Living Allowance will see their case transferred to Social Security Scotland by the end of this year. Before making the call you will need your National Insurance number , bank account details and GP name and address in order for the DWP to verify your identity. A full guide to reporting a change to Social Security Scotland if you are in receipt of a devolved payment can be found on mygov.scot here.
