If you’re thinking about applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), one thing many people overlook is how long the award might last. While some people assume it’s a permanent benefit, the truth is that PIP awards can vary widely—from as short as nine months to ongoing awards reviewed only once a decade.
Recent data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) shows that PIP claims have hit a record high in the UK, with over 3.7 million people receiving support as of April 2025. With major reforms expected next year, knowing how PIP works—including the length of awards—is more important than ever.
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Length
Not every successful PIP claim leads to a long-term award. In fact, the duration of your award will depend entirely on your individual circumstances, how your condition affects your daily life, and whether it’s expected to improve over time.
Here’s a quick breakdown of possible PIP award lengths:
- Short-term awards: As short as 9 months
- Limited term awards: Fixed period, usually up to 2 years
- Standard awards: Typically between 2–5 years
- Ongoing awards: No end date, with a light touch review every 10 years
According to DWP guidance, most awards—regardless of length—will be reviewed regularly to ensure you’re receiving the correct level of support.
Review
Some awards come with a scheduled review date. These reviews are in place to check if your needs have changed, especially if you’re expected to improve. However, there are exceptions—particularly for people with long-term or worsening conditions.
A “light touch” review is typically reserved for claimants with:
- Very stable or high-level needs
- Health that is unlikely to improve
- Awards that extend into or begin at State Pension age
- Special end-of-life circumstances
In these cases, claimants usually won’t need to attend a face-to-face assessment. The DWP handles these reviews in a more relaxed way, hence the term “light touch.”
Rates
PIP provides financial help through two components: daily living and mobility. Depending on the severity of your condition, you could receive either or both, at different rates.
Here’s what you could receive per week:
| Component | Lower Rate | Higher Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £73.90 | £110.40 |
| Mobility | £29.20 | £77.05 |
Since PIP is paid every four weeks, the maximum someone can receive is £749.80 each payment period.
Conditions
While PIP awards are based on how your condition affects you—not the condition itself—DWP data shows that some health issues are more likely to result in long-term awards. Below are the six conditions most commonly linked with awards lasting five years or more.
| Condition Type | Total Claimants | Light Touch Awards | % with 5+ Year Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual disease | 58,539 | 38,112 | 65% |
| Musculoskeletal (general) | 697,476 | 365,238 | 52% |
| Neurological disease | 472,121 | 252,214 | 53.4% |
| Respiratory disease | 137,957 | 66,647 | 48.3% |
| Autoimmune (connective tissue) | 19,921 | 9,310 | 46.7% |
| Musculoskeletal (regional) | 440,684 | 202,317 | 46% |
Out of all 3,744,671 current PIP claimants, 44 per cent have been awarded a five-year or longer award, and over 1.6 million of these include a light touch review.
Summary
Your PIP award could last just a few months—or potentially a decade with minimal review. The key takeaway? It all depends on how your condition affects your daily life, your likelihood of improvement, and your age. The DWP uses a case-by-case approach, so if you’re applying, make sure to provide clear, detailed information about your needs.
If you already receive PIP and are wondering when your award might be reviewed or how long it could last, it’s worth reading the latest PIP Handbook or speaking with a benefits advisor. Knowing your award can make a big difference in planning your future support.
FAQs
What is the shortest PIP award?
Nine months is the shortest standard PIP award duration.
How often are PIP awards reviewed?
Most awards are reviewed regularly, even long-term ones.
What is a light touch review?
A simplified review for stable or worsening long-term conditions.
What is the maximum PIP payment?
Up to £749.80 every four weeks for full components.
Which conditions get longer PIP awards?
Visual, neurological, and musculoskeletal conditions often get 5+ years.
