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Personal Independence Payment: Veterans

Asked by Greg SmithConservativeDepartment for Work and PensionsTabled Answered 30 June 2026UIN 12272

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if his Department will take steps to reduce reassessment requirements for Personal Independence Payments for veterans with permanent and irreversible service-related injuries.

Answered by Sir Stephen Timms

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) awards, including the rate payable and the duration, are set on an individual basis, based on the claimant’s needs and the likelihood of those needs changing. Regular reviews are a key feature of the benefit and ensure that payments accurately match the current needs of claimants. Award durations can vary from nine months to an on-going award, with a light touch review at the ten-year point.

Since 6 April 2026 we have reduced the frequency of repeated reviews in PIP. For most claimants over 25, their first review will be a minimum of 3 years and, assuming they remain entitled, 5 years for their next review.

We know PIP can be improved, which is why we launched the Timms Review, working with disabled people and their organisations to ensure the benefit is fair and fit for the future. We launched a Call for Evidence that closed last week and are beginning to carefully consider and analyse the responses provided. We have also outlined a varied approach to evidence gathering so people can share their views on how the benefit should be reformed.

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