Big changes are on the horizon for disability benefits in the UK — and it’s causing a wave of concern for those who rely on this vital support. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed sweeping reforms to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and other disability benefits.
Starting from November 2026, stricter eligibility rules could leave hundreds of thousands without the financial help they currently receive.
This no-nonsense guide breaks down what’s happening, who’s likely to be affected, the possible financial impact, and what steps you can take now to prepare. If you or someone you care about claims PIP, it’s worth staying ahead of this.
Overview
A quick glance at the key details:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Change | New PIP eligibility rules from Nov 2026 |
| Daily Living Component Rule | Must score 4+ points in a single daily living activity |
| Mobility Component | No changes for now |
| Expected Impact | Up to 800,000 claimants risk losing support |
| Average Financial Loss | Around £4,500 per year for those affected |
| Hardest Hit Areas | Wales and Northern England |
| Official Info Source | DWP Announcement on Welfare Reforms |
Changes
According to the government, the current system has become too expensive to sustain. Over the past decade, the cost of disability benefits has nearly doubled, with projections suggesting it could reach £50 billion a year by 2030.
The DWP says it’s aiming to direct support to those with the greatest needs while encouraging more disabled people into employment.
Ministers argue this approach will help control public spending and make the system fairer. However, disability campaigners warn these cuts could hit the most vulnerable communities hardest — particularly in areas already facing economic challenges.
What’s Changing in PIP?
At present, to qualify for the daily living component of PIP, claimants need to score at least 8 points spread across several daily living tasks such as cooking, washing, dressing, or managing finances.
From November 2026, this will change. Claimants will need to score a minimum of 4 points within a single activity — not across multiple areas. This means those whose scores are currently made up of small points from various tasks could lose their entitlement under the revised system.
The mobility component of PIP isn’t changing for now, though it’s under review for possible future reforms.
Who Will Be Affected?
DWP projections suggest around 800,000 people could lose their PIP entitlement by 2029–30. The groups most at risk include individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, as well as those with less severe physical disabilities.
Financially, losing PIP could mean around £4,500 less per year for those affected. And the knock-on effects could be wider — as losing PIP can also affect eligibility for other support like Carer’s Allowance, Blue Badges, Motability vehicles, and additional welfare benefits.
The hardest hit areas are expected to be Wales and Northern England, where disability claim rates are higher and average incomes are lower.
How to Prepare
If you’re worried about what these changes might mean for you, it’s worth taking steps now. Start by reviewing your most recent PIP award letter and noting which activities you scored points in. Focus especially on any where you may already have 4 points or more.
It’s also a good idea to gather supporting evidence, such as medical letters, specialist reports, and examples from daily life showing how your condition affects you. This information could be vital if your award is reassessed.
Stay informed by following updates from disability charities like Scope and Disability Rights UK, and regularly check the DWP’s official channels for announcements.
Lastly, consider booking an appointment with a welfare rights advisor or Citizens Advice. They can review your situation and help you prepare for any future assessments or appeals.
FAQs
When do the new PIP rules start?
November 2026 is when the new eligibility rules take effect.
What is the biggest change to PIP?
You must score 4+ points in one daily living activity to qualify.
Will the Mobility Component change too?
Not yet — but it could be reviewed in the coming years.
Who’s most at risk of losing PIP?
People with mental health conditions and mild physical disabilities.
How much could claimants lose per year?
Affected claimants might lose around £4,500 annually.
