Last reviewed: · Sources: GOV.UK, ACAS, Citizens Advice
Disabled or dealing with a long-term illness? This guide covers PIP rates, the WCA process, reasonable adjustments at work, blue badges, and the upcoming changes that could affect your entitlements.
The government has proposed changes to PIP eligibility (the "4-point rule") planned for November 2026. Under this proposal, activities where you score less than 4 points on any single descriptor would not qualify for the daily living component. This is not yet law — it remains a proposal. If you are currently receiving PIP, your award continues under the current rules until reviewed.
PIP is a non-means-tested benefit for people aged 16–64 (or 65+ who were already getting it) with a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability. It has two components:
| Component | Rate | Amount (April 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Daily living | Standard | £76.70/week |
| Daily living | Enhanced | £114.60/week |
| Mobility | Standard | £30.30/week |
| Mobility | Enhanced | £80.00/week |
PIP is awarded based on how your condition affects your ability to carry out daily living and mobility activities — not on your diagnosis. The assessment uses a points-based system across 12 activities.
If you're refused PIP or awarded a lower rate than you believe you should receive, request a Mandatory Reconsideration, and if that fails, appeal to the tribunal. The tribunal success rate is 66% in 2025–26 (HMCTS data).
Under the Equality Act 2010, employers have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees. A disability for Equality Act purposes means a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term (12 months+) adverse effect on your ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.
Reasonable adjustments can include:
What is "reasonable" depends on the size of your employer, the cost, and how effective the adjustment would be. Large employers are expected to do more than small ones.
If you claim Universal Credit or New Style ESA due to a health condition or disability, you may be asked to undergo a Work Capability Assessment. This determines whether you have:
If you disagree with the WCA outcome, request a Mandatory Reconsideration and then appeal to tribunal if needed. Getting evidence from your GP or specialist is essential.
Access to Work is a DWP grant scheme that helps disabled people in paid employment or self-employment by funding practical support. It can cover:
Apply before starting a new job if possible — you can apply at gov.uk/access-to-work. There is no upper limit on the grant in most cases.
Vague medical evidence is the most common reason PIP claims fail. Ask your doctor to describe in detail how your condition affects you on your worst days.
Turn2Us and entitledto.co.uk show what you should receive. Use them before claiming and after any change in circumstances.
Do this within 1 month of the decision. Get help from Citizens Advice, Scope or a disability charity.
66% of PIP appeals succeed at tribunal. You don't need a lawyer — but evidence from your GP or a disability charity rep helps significantly.
Put your request in writing. If your employer refuses, ask them to explain what adjustments they considered. Unreasonable refusal is disability discrimination.
The grant can make a significant difference — don't leave it until after you've started work.
Describe your condition and situation and get guidance on PIP, workplace rights and what support you're entitled to.
Use the Free Checker →Citizens Advice: 0800 144 8848 — PIP claims and appeals
Scope: scope.org.uk/helpline — disability rights advice
DWP PIP enquiries: 0800 121 4433
Access to Work: 0800 121 7479
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