The PIP reassessment in 2025 has triggered one of the most dramatic shifts in the UK’s welfare system in recent memory. Over 200,000 people have already lost their Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and up to 1.2 million are expected to be impacted by 2029.
These sweeping changes are part of a broader government plan to slash £5 billion annually from welfare spending by the end of the decade.
Whether you’re a current claimant, a carer, or simply worried about future eligibility, knowing what’s changed, who’s protected, and what steps you can take is essential. Let’s break it down.
Overhaul
The reassessment isn’t just a routine review—it’s a complete overhaul. PIP, which supports individuals with long-term physical or mental health conditions, now comes with tighter rules that make it harder to qualify.
Previously, points could be accumulated across several tasks to qualify. But from November 2026, you’ll need to score at least 4 points in one single daily living activity to get support. For many, that’s a game-changer.
Here’s what the reassessment landscape looks like:
Key Change | Details |
---|---|
Total affected by 2029 | Up to 1.2 million people |
Already lost support (2025) | Over 200,000 individuals |
New scoring rule | 4 points in a single daily activity |
Financial loss per person | Approx. £4,500 annually |
Protected claimants | 32,600 exempt (terminal/severe cases) |
Regions hit hardest | Wales and Northern England |
Criteria
The most significant shift? Scoring thresholds.
Before: Points could be earned by showing moderate difficulties across different activities—say, 2 points for preparing food, 2 for managing medication, 2 for dressing.
Now: You must get 4 points in a single activity, or you risk being disqualified from the daily living component. That means those with conditions like chronic fatigue, autism, or anxiety—often impacting multiple activities mildly—are seeing their claims denied.
Impact
These changes have had a ripple effect across the country. Let’s talk numbers:
Outcome | % of Claimants |
---|---|
No Change | 52% |
Award Increased | 19% |
Award Reduced | 8% |
Benefit Withdrawn | 21% |
So yes, more than 1 in 5 people are losing their PIP entirely—and the impacts don’t end there.
Groups
Certain groups are bearing the brunt of these reforms:
- Carers: Over 150,000 may lose Carer’s Allowance or Universal Credit components.
- Older Adults: Those near retirement are at risk of being left in a support gap.
- Claimants with ‘Mild’ Conditions: Anxiety, fibromyalgia, and similar conditions often don’t meet the new scoring threshold.
- Regional Disparity: Places like Wales and Northern England have seen higher reassessment cuts.
Protection
Thankfully, 32,600 claimants are protected. These include those with:
- Terminal illness
- Advanced cancer
- Progressive neurological conditions (e.g., ALS, Parkinson’s)
- End-stage respiratory diseases
These individuals won’t need to undergo reassessment and will continue receiving full PIP support.
Options
Worried you’ll lose your PIP—or already have? Here’s how to take action:
- Mandatory Reconsideration: Apply within one month of your decision letter.
- Appeal: If reconsideration fails, escalate your case to an independent First-tier Tribunal.
- Get Help: Contact Citizens Advice, Scope, or Turn2Us. They’re equipped to guide you through the appeal.
- Look Alternatives: Even if you lose PIP, you may qualify for:
- Universal Credit
- ESA (Employment and Support Allowance)
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
Preparation
If you’re at risk, preparation is your best defense:
- Keep medical records updated.
- Maintain a daily symptoms diary.
- Get written evidence from your GP or specialist.
- File any challenges promptly—PIP affects other linked benefits, so timing matters.
The 2025 PIP reassessment is more than just policy—it’s personal. For many, it means financial stress, added pressure on carers, and the loss of independence.
While the system aims to be more “targeted,” it’s leaving a lot of people behind. So stay alert, be proactive, and don’t go through it alone.
FAQs
What is the new PIP scoring rule?
Claimants must now score 4 points in one single daily activity.
Who is exempt from PIP reassessment?
People with terminal or severe progressive conditions are protected.
What happens if I lose my PIP?
You can request a reconsideration or appeal to a tribunal.
How much could I lose annually?
The average estimated loss is around £4,500 per year.
Can I still get other benefits if PIP stops?
Yes, you might qualify for Universal Credit, ESA, or others.