Numi Kent
If you’re living with visual impairment or degenerative eye conditions, you could be entitled to up to £749 per month through Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in England and Wales, or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) in Scotland.
This financial support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) helps cover additional costs related to your disability.
Approximately 2 million people in the UK have some form of sight loss, but many are unaware of the benefits they could be eligible for.
Who Qualifies for PIP or ADP with Vision Loss?
To be eligible for these benefits, you must:
- Have difficulty with daily living tasks or mobility for at least 3 months
- Expect these difficulties to persist for at least 9 more months
- Be living in the UK for two of the last three years
Eligibility is assessed based on how your condition affects your life, not just a diagnosis.
Common Eye Conditions That May Qualify
Below are some of the most common visual conditions that could lead to eligibility for PIP or ADP:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Retinal Disorders | Macular degeneration, Retinal detachment, Diabetic retinopathy |
| Optic Nerve Issues | Optic neuritis, Optic atrophy |
| Refractive Errors | Myopia, Hypermetropia, Presbyopia |
| Visual Field Defects | Tunnel vision, Hemianopia, Scotoma |
| Other | Cataracts, Glaucoma, Nystagmus, Diplopia |
Even if your eye condition isn’t listed, it could still be eligible based on its impact on your daily function and mobility.
How Much Could You Receive?
The maximum monthly support for someone with significant visual impairment is approximately £749.80, paid every four weeks.
| Component | Standard Rate (Weekly) | Enhanced Rate (Weekly) |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £73.90 | £110.40 |
| Mobility | £29.20 | £77.05 |
If you qualify for both enhanced rates, your total support could reach £187.45 per week, or £749.80 every four weeks.
Special Support for White Cane Users
Using a white cane can increase your chances of qualifying for the enhanced mobility rate.
On the PIP form, if you cannot follow the route of a familiar journey without an orientation aid, such as a white cane or assistance dog, you may be awarded 12 points, making you eligible for the enhanced mobility component.
Application and Assessment
For PIP, an independent healthcare professional conducts your assessment, either through:
- Face-to-face meetings
- Telephone or video calls
- Paper-based evaluations
For ADP (Scotland), face-to-face assessments are not mandatory, unless the claimant prefers them.
Benefits are paid every four weeks and go directly to your bank or credit union account.
If you’re one of the millions struggling with poor eyesight, you could be missing out on up to £749 a month in financial support.
The UK Government, through the DWP and Social Security Scotland, provides PIP and ADP to ensure that those with disabilities—especially those with visual challenges—get the help they need to manage daily life and maintain independence.
Don’t overlook this benefit. Check your eligibility, gather supporting medical evidence, and submit your application today.
FAQs
Can people with short-sightedness or long-sightedness get PIP or ADP?
Only if these conditions significantly impact your daily living or mobility. Mild cases typically won’t qualify.
What if my condition isn’t on the list of eye disorders?
Your claim is based on how your condition affects you, not the name of the diagnosis. You can still apply.
Can I claim both daily living and mobility components?
Yes. If your vision affects both your daily tasks and mobility, you may be eligible for both components of PIP or ADP.