Claimants receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP) are being reminded that failure to report certain changes to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could result in their payments being paused, reduced, or completely stopped.
While changes like updating your name, doctor, or address do not affect PIP payments, other circumstances—such as leaving the country for an extended period—could impact your entitlement.
Changes You Must Report to the DWP
The 2024/25 PIP Handbook highlights the importance of reporting the following change:
- Leaving the UK for more than four weeks:
- Whether it’s for a holiday, work, or any other reason, if you plan to be out of the UK for more than four weeks, you must notify the DWP.
- You’ll need to provide:
- Your departure date
- The length of your stay
- The country you are visiting
- The reason for your trip
Failure to inform the DWP of long-term travel could lead to stopped or delayed payments, as PIP is designed for those living primarily within the UK.
Why Does Travel Affect PIP Entitlement?
PIP helps cover the additional costs associated with long-term disabilities and health conditions. Since this support is intended for UK residents, extended absences abroad may affect a claimant’s eligibility.
Changes That Don’t Need to Be Reported
Claimants do not need to inform the DWP about:
- A change of name
- Switching to a new doctor or health professional
- Moving to a new address
These updates have no effect on your PIP award or payments.
How to Report Changes
If you need to report changes that could affect your PIP, you can:
- Call the PIP helpline:
- Telephone: 0800 121 4433
- Textphone: 0800 121 4493
- Write to the DWP:
- Address: Personal Independence Payment New Claims, Post Handling Site B, Wolverhampton, WV99 1AH
- Update your details online: Visit the GOV.UK PIP page for instructions.
What Happens If You Don’t Report Changes?
Failing to inform the DWP about changes like long-term travel can lead to:
- Paused or delayed payments
- Reduction or complete stoppage of monthly payments
- Potential repayment demands if overpayments occur due to unreported changes
To avoid disruptions to your benefits, it’s essential to report changes, especially if you plan to leave the UK for an extended period. Keeping the DWP informed ensures you remain eligible for PIP and avoid unnecessary financial stress.
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FAQ’s
What changes do PIP claimants not need to report?
You do not need to inform the DWP if you change your name, doctor, health professional, or address. These changes will not affect your PIP payments or entitlement.
Do I need to inform the DWP if I leave the UK for more than four weeks?
Yes, if you leave the country for more than four weeks, you must inform the DWP. You will need to provide details about your departure date, length of stay, destination country, and reason for travel.
Why does leaving the country affect PIP entitlement?
PIP is designed to help with the extra costs of disability while living in the UK. Extended periods abroad may affect your eligibility for the benefit.
How do I report changes related to PIP?
You can report changes by calling the PIP helpline at 0800 121 4433, writing to the DWP, or updating your details online through GOV.UK.
What happens if I don’t report changes to the DWP?
Failure to report significant changes, like leaving the UK for an extended period, may result in your PIP payments being paused, reduced, or stopped.