DMP and PIP payment

PhillipM1972

Hi. I've started the process of setting up a debt management plan with Step Change. Someone on another forum told me I wasn't obliged to include my monthly Personal Independence Payment in my "income". I also read it on the National Debtline website. Is this true? I would be grateful for any advice anyone has on the matter.

Thanks,

Phil

National_Debtline

Hi Phillip


I'm happy to reiterate the guidance given on our website. PIP (like Disability Living Allowance before it) is paid on a non means-tested basis where the claimant is deemed to have personal care and/or mobility-related needs above a certain threshold. It is paid directly to the claimant at one of a number of set rates based on the level of those needs - though in some cases, it can be diverted towards a specific recipient e.g. Motability vehicle agreements.


All this, you doubtless know already. The point I'm making is that it is yours to allocate as you see fit. Therefore, if you wish to ring-fence it for disability-related needs, you are free to do so. Equally, if you felt able and willing to use some/all of it to help you service debts, that too would be at your discretion.


If you ever feel that you are being put under undue pressure to use this money towards debt repayments by a creditor, and you are not comfortable doing so, you should make your concerns known and complain as appropriate.


Hope that helps


Dennis
@natdebtline