Numi Kent
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that Personal Independence Payment (PIP) rates will increase from April 2026, in line with the September 2025 Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation rate.
This move could offer a crucial financial lifeline to millions of disabled individuals and those with long-term health conditions across the UK.
Although planned PIP reforms have been temporarily postponed pending a review, the annual benefit uprating is going ahead as usual, with the next official figures expected in the Autumn Budget.
What Is the Expected Increase in PIP for 2026?
Based on the latest CPI data from June 2025, which stands at 3.6%, the DWP projects increases in both the daily living and mobility components of PIP. The final figures will be confirmed after the September 2025 inflation is officially published.
Here is a prediction of the new PIP weekly payment rates for 2026/27:
PIP Payment Rates: April 2026 (Estimated with 3.6% CPI)
| Component | Current Rate (2025) | Projected Rate (2026) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Living – Standard | £73.90 | £76.55 | +£2.65 |
| Daily Living – Enhanced | £110.40 | £114.35 | +£3.95 |
| Mobility – Standard | £29.20 | £30.25 | +£1.05 |
| Mobility – Enhanced | £77.05 | £79.80 | +£2.75 |
These weekly increases mean recipients could see up to £776.60 every four weeks, a £26.80 boost over the current top-tier rate of £749.80.
How Many People Claim PIP in the UK?
As of mid-2025, more than 3.7 million people across Great Britain receive PIP. It is available for those who need extra support with daily tasks or mobility due to a long-term illness, mental health issue, or disability.
What Conditions Are Covered by PIP?
While there are over 530 recorded conditions under PIP, each claim is assessed based on how a condition impacts daily functioning, not just the diagnosis. The top five most-claimed conditions are:
- Psychiatric disorders – 39%
- Musculoskeletal disease (general) – 19%
- Neurological disease – 13%
- Musculoskeletal disease (regional) – 12%
- Respiratory disease – 4%
PIP includes support for activities like:
- Cooking and eating
- Managing medications
- Washing, dressing, and using the toilet
- Moving around
- Social interaction and communication
- Budgeting and financial decision-making
Eligibility Criteria for PIP
You may be eligible if you:
- Have had difficulty with daily living or mobility for 3 months
- Expect those difficulties to last at least 9 months
- Have lived in the UK for 2 out of the last 3 years
How PIP is Paid
- PIP is paid every 4 weeks (or weekly if terminally ill)
- It is deposited directly into your bank, building society, or credit union account
- Your claim starts from the date of application, not from when it’s approved
How the Assessment Works
Every PIP applicant undergoes an independent health assessment. This may be:
- Face-to-face
- Video call
- Telephone
- Or paper-based
Assessments evaluate:
- How often your condition affects you
- Whether you can do tasks safely and on time
- What support or aids you need to complete tasks
The upcoming PIP rate increases from April 2026 will provide essential support to millions of UK residents coping with disability and long-term health conditions.
With the inflation-linked boost expected to raise payments by 3.6%, it’s crucial for current and potential claimants to review their eligibility, understand their entitlements, and stay updated with the final figures in the Autumn Budget.
Every extra pound matters in times of financial strain—and this annual uplift could make a meaningful difference.
FAQs
When will the new PIP rates take effect?
The new PIP payment rates will take effect from April 2026, based on the September 2025 CPI inflation rate.
How much could the PIP increase be in April 2026?
If CPI inflation remains at 3.6%, PIP could rise by £6.70 per week for those receiving the highest awards.
Is a medical diagnosis enough to qualify for PIP?
No. Eligibility is based on how your condition affects your daily life, not solely on a diagnosis. You must demonstrate your needs through the assessment process.