Major DWP Announcement | Online PIP Applications Coming in 2024

Major DWP Announcement | Online PIP Applications Coming in 2024. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed a major change in the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application process for new claimants in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, set to take effect next year. Currently, new PIP claims require an average processing time of 13 weeks.

Scotland Adopts Adult Disability Payment for New Claims

It’s important to note that new PIP claims in Scotland have transitioned to Adult Disability Payment and are no longer handled by the DWP.

Testing Phase for ‘PIP Online Apply Service’

The DWP is currently in the process of testing the “PIP online apply service,” which is currently available to a limited number of 60 new claimants per day. While using this online service is entirely voluntary, it offers potential benefits, including the possibility of reducing decision-making times. Claimants can upload supporting evidence and documents instantly.

Online Service Aims to Expedite the Application Process

Minister for Disabled People and Work and Health, Tom Pursglove, emphasized during a debate on PIP assessment processes that the online service is optional. Claimants who prefer not to use the online platform can still apply through existing methods.

Support for Claimants

Claimants who require assistance, including those who need an appointee to act on their behalf, are not part of the current testing phase. However, the DWP is prioritizing expanding the online service to accommodate this group of claimants as part of its gradual rollout.

Target for Wider Availability 2024

The DWP aims to make the online PIP service available to all eligible claimants in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland by 2024, provided they choose to use it.

Incremental Expansion of Online Service

As the online service continues to evolve, it will include the following groups incrementally:

• Individuals applying in an official capacity, such as appointees.
• Individuals with a Welsh or Northern Ireland postcode.
• Those applying for special rules.
• Individuals with previous or existing PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) claims.
• Those without a National Insurance number or residing in GY or JY postcodes.

For more information, you can visit the dedicated PIP pages on GOV.UK to check if you are eligible for the digital claim option. Further details can be found on the GOV.UK website.