PIP vs DLA - What's the Difference?

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults aged 16-64 in 2013. DLA still exists for children under 16. If you are an adult currently on DLA, you will eventually be moved to PIP. Here are the key differences.

Key Differences

Assessment: DLA was largely self-reported with no assessment. PIP requires a health assessment (usually by phone) by an independent assessor. This is the biggest change and the most common source of anxiety.

Activities: DLA had care and mobility components assessed broadly. PIP has 12 specific activities, each with defined descriptors and point values. This is more structured but also means you need to match specific criteria.

Points system: DLA did not use points. PIP uses a points-based system where you need 8+ points for standard rate and 12+ for enhanced rate in each component.

Reviews: Many DLA awards were indefinite. All PIP awards have a review date, though some are set 10+ years away for stable conditions.

Mobility: DLA higher rate mobility required "virtually unable to walk." PIP enhanced mobility requires "cannot stand and then move more than 20 metres." The PIP threshold is generally considered more restrictive.

Transitioning from DLA to PIP

If you are being moved from DLA to PIP, your DLA payments continue until the PIP decision is made. There should be no gap in payments. If the PIP award is lower than your DLA, the difference can be significant - this is why getting the wording right on the PIP form matters enormously.

Children Turning 16

When a child on DLA turns 16, they will be invited to claim PIP. A parent or guardian can act as appointee and handle the entire process. The DLA continues until the PIP decision is made.