Thousands of people in the UK may not realize that they are missing out on additional financial aid from the government.
Those living with disabilities or long-term health conditions might be eligible for extra payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), but many are unaware.
Universal Credit and Financial Assistance for Low-Income Individuals
As of January 2025, a significant number of UK residents—7.5 million in total across Scotland, England, and Wales—are benefiting from Universal Credit, a financial aid program designed to support individuals with low incomes. Whether working or not, this benefit aims to assist with daily living costs.
However, it has been reported that many individuals claiming Universal Credit or income-related Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), especially those with disabilities or chronic health conditions, may be missing out on further financial aid available through Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (ADP).
This additional financial help is intended to support daily living or mobility expenses.
The Importance of PIP and ADP
Both PIP and ADP are tax-free, non-means-tested payments, meaning they won’t affect your existing benefits or the benefit cap. They can be claimed separately from other benefits, making them an essential source of financial support for those who qualify.
As a result, individuals who claim Universal Credit or JSA and are eligible for either PIP or ADP may receive up to £749.80 every four weeks, on top of their regular benefit payments.
For example, someone claiming Universal Credit at the single, over-25 rate (£400.14 monthly) combined with the maximum rate from PIP or ADP could potentially receive a total of up to £1,149.94 per month.
Understanding Eligibility for PIP and ADP
To qualify for PIP or ADP, it’s essential to understand that it’s not merely having a health condition that matters—it’s how that condition affects your ability to carry out daily activities and mobility tasks. Conditions that might make someone eligible include:
- Mental health conditions
- Chronic diseases
- Physical disabilities
- Learning disabilities
The impact of the condition is evaluated based on how it affects your ability to perform essential tasks.
PIP and ADP Payment Rates
When you apply for PIP or ADP, you’ll undergo an assessment to determine the level of support you are entitled to. Your payment rate will depend on the severity of your condition and the level of help required.
PIP Payment Rates
- Daily Living:
- Standard rate: £73.90
- Enhanced rate: £110.40
- Mobility:
- Standard rate: £29.20
- Enhanced rate: £77.05
ADP
ADP shares the same eligibility criteria and most of the payment structure as PIP, but it is specific to Scotland, where it has replaced PIP for new claims.
Health Conditions and Disabilities Covered by PIP and ADP
The list of health conditions eligible for PIP or ADP is extensive and includes various diseases and disorders. Some of the conditions covered under these benefits include:
- Multisystem diseases
- Psychiatric disorders
- Musculoskeletal conditions
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Neurological diseases
- Autoimmune diseases
- Gastrointestinal diseases
Eligibility Criteria for PIP and ADP
To qualify for PIP or ADP, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have had difficulties with daily living or mobility for at least three months.
- You expect these difficulties to last for at least nine months.
- You need to have lived in the UK for at least two of the last three years and be in the country when applying.
Additionally, if you require assistance with tasks like:
- Preparing food
- Managing medication
- Personal care (e.g., bathing or dressing)
- Engaging with others
- Planning journeys or moving around
Then you should consider applying for either PIP or ADP.
How the DWP Assesses Eligibility
The Department for Work and Pensions will assess your condition to determine the impact it has on your daily living and mobility needs. The assessment considers:
- Safety: Can you perform tasks safely?
- Duration: How long does it take you to complete tasks?
- Frequency: How often does your condition affect your ability to perform tasks?
- Help Required: Do you need help from another person or extra equipment?
How to Apply for PIP or ADP
If you believe you qualify, you can apply for PIP by contacting the DWP through the GOV.UK website. For those in Scotland, applications for ADP can be made through mygov.scot.
The UK Government offers crucial financial support for individuals with disabilities or health conditions, but many people may be unaware that they qualify for additional benefits like PIP or ADP.
These tax-free payments can significantly enhance the financial well-being of eligible individuals, providing assistance with daily living and mobility needs.
FAQs
Can I receive both Universal Credit and PIP/ADP?
Yes, you can receive Universal Credit and PIP or ADP at the same time, as they are separate benefits designed for different purposes.
How do I know if I am eligible for PIP or ADP?
Eligibility is based on how your condition affects your ability to carry out daily activities and move around. If you require help with tasks like preparing food or getting dressed, you may qualify.
How often will I receive PIP or ADP payments?
PIP and ADP payments are issued every four weeks, and the amount you receive depends on your level of need and the severity of your condition.