Will current DLA be stopped if PIP application made?

megc_2

Hi,
I currently receive DLA on an indefinite award, but have been advised due to a change in mobility needs, I would probably be better off claiming PIP. (It seems unlikely I would be worse off, considering the descriptors).

I know PIP claims are taking an extremely long time to receive decisions, but would I continue to receive my DLA during this time? I can't afford to lose my DLA if I make an early claim for PIP due to a change of circumstances.

Indie_Kid

It shouldn't stop until a decision is made. Providing the forms are sent back on time.

Mr_Lawnmower

megc wrote: »

I currently receive DLA on an indefinite award, but have been advised due to a change in mobility needs, I would probably be better off claiming PIP. (It seems unlikely I would be worse off, considering the descriptors).

Your options to move to PIP depends on whether 'natural reassessment' to PIP is active in your area. If you check the PIP postcode map you can find out those areas where 'natural reassessment' is live.


If you want your existing DLA to continue until a decision is made, you should report a change of circumstances to the office dealing with your DLA.

If 'natural reassessment' to PIP is still to go active in your area, your change of circumstances report will be handled under the DLA system.

If 'natural reassessment' is active in your area, a brief phone call to the DLA helpline reporting increased mobility needs should trigger a PIP 0204 letter (the link is to the example on gov.uk) in response, telling you to claim PIP. So long as you start your PIP claim within the time limit and comply fully with the claim process, your DLA will continue until a PIP decision is made. This is an unstoppable process once you report the change of circumstances, as your DLA will be cancelled if you do not pursue the PIP claim to a decision.


Both the 'change of circumstances' and 'volunteer' routes to move from DLA to PIP require 'natural reassessment' to be live in your area. This means the only way to move from an indefinite award of DLA to PIP in areas where 'natural reassessment' is not yet live is to close your DLA claim and claim PIP. Obviously, if you do this, you will not receive any DLA or PIP until a decision is made, at which point you will receive PIP backdated to the date of claim if you are awarded PIP.


If you claim PIP, you may find the Youreable thread containing information on PIP and reflections on my successful PIP claim helpful (I have a different forum name here due to MSE forum rules).

maggieann2luke

I've been on dla low rate for 7years but now have mobility problems. I rang the dla and explained my situation, half expecting a pip claim to be made. Fortunately I now get the mobility dla without having to wait and worry. It was something to do with already being on dla and not a brand new claim.

Morglin

If you are already on DLA, then your payments should not stop until a decision about PIP (if applicable) has been made.

Either way, you should keep your money, at the same rate, until you receive a decision letter.

Lin

megc_2

Thanks all for your advice and information. It will help me to think things through carefully before making a decision.