Veterans: Social Security Benefits

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. The reduction in frequency ensures claimants receive the right level of award while removing pressure from claimants whose needs rarely change at each review. This will make the system more efficient and will enable us to increase the number of WCA reassessments and the proportion of PIP/WCA health assessments conducted face-to-face.

We know PIP can be improved, which is why we launched the Timms Review, which is being co-produced with disabled people and their organisations to ensure the benefit is fair and fit for the future. We ran a Call for Evidence that closed on the 28 May, and the responses are currently being analysed with a summary to be published shortly alongside an interim report. We have also outlined a varied approach to evidence gathering so people can share their views on how the benefit should be reformed.