DRO and PIP backpay

hbp2008

Hey all

If you're on a DRO and get a backpay of PIP will the DRO be cancelled and the PIP backpay used to pay the debts, or some of it?

Any info on this would be great, also I'm BR and this is my wifes claim, so will I need to tell them that she is now in receipt of PIP? Will this then take me into an IPA?

Thanks!

National_Debtline

Hi hbp2008,


The backdate of PIP shouldn't affect the DRO at all, as it is treated differently to other benefits. However, one thing your wife will need to be careful of is what she spends the money on. Anything that is essential for the house or her health should be fine (just keep receipts) but you need to be careful not to convert the cash into an asset worth more than £1000.


You should inform the OR of any change in circumstances, and if your wife now receives more income, it may mean that you have an increased surplus per month. If you surplus is in excess of £20per month an IPA is possible, however, if she uses her PIP for health expenses, then your surplus may not have changed at all.


Laura
@natdebtline

hbp2008

Perfect, thank you