PIP Cuts Coming: The UK government has announced major reforms to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system, with changes set to roll out from April 2026. While new claimants will be affected immediately after this date, existing recipients will face these new rules during their next reassessment after April 2026.
These changes could affect up to 1.3 million people, with some expected to lose between £4,200 and £6,300 in annual support. If you currently receive PIP or plan to apply, this article will walk you through what’s changing, who is most at risk, and how to protect your benefits.
PIP Cuts Coming
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Reform Implementation Date | April 2026 for new claims; post-April 2026 for reassessed claims |
| People Potentially Affected | Over 1.3 million |
| Maximum Potential Loss | Between £4,200 and £6,300 annually |
| Major Change in Eligibility | Must score 4 points in one activity to qualify for daily living component |
| Vulnerable Groups at Risk | People with severe mental illness and low-level needs across multiple activities |
| Political Backlash | Over 50 Labour MPs may rebel against the policy; 200 constituencies impacted |
| Support Organizations | Scope, Mind, Citizens Advice |
| Official Consultation Link | UK Government PIP Reform Consultation |
The 2025–2026 PIP reforms are set to change the landscape of disability benefits in the UK. While the government claims it’s about targeting help to those who need it most, the real-world effects could be devastating for thousands who rely on PIP to live with dignity. The reassessment list won’t be made public, but if you receive PIP and have low scores across several needs rather than a single dominant one, you may be at risk.
What Are the 2025 PIP Reforms?
What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?
PIP is a benefit for people aged 16 to 64 with long-term physical or mental health conditions that make it difficult to do everyday tasks or get around. It consists of two components:
- Daily Living Component for help with tasks like eating, dressing, or washing
- Mobility Component for assistance with moving around
Eligibility is determined through a points-based assessment system.
What’s Changing in 2025–2026?
New Threshold for Daily Living Component
Currently, individuals can score points across various daily living tasks (e.g., cooking, bathing, managing money) and qualify for support even if they don’t have a dominant difficulty in one area.
But under the proposed 2026 rule, you must now score at least four points in a single activity to qualify for the daily living component of PIP. This change is aimed at narrowing eligibility to people with the most severe needs.
People with Multiple Low-Level Needs Will Be Most Affected
Those who score low points across several activities—common among individuals with mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or autism spectrum disorder—may no longer qualify, even if their total score would have previously been enough.
Who Could Lose Their Benefits?
These changes could mean entire categories of claimants are removed from the PIP system, particularly those who:
- Struggle with daily tasks but not severely in any one area
- Have invisible disabilities or fluctuating conditions
- Rely on a combination of supports across multiple minor impairments
Loss of Linked Benefits
Losing PIP could also result in the loss of other entitlements, including:
- Carer’s Allowance
- Free public transport passes
- Disability premiums in Universal Credit
- Council Tax reductions
Mental Health and Emotional Impact
Mental health charities warn the change is already causing distress. A survey from Benefits and Work found that people living with severe mental illnesses are reporting:
- Increased anxiety and depression
- Worsening symptoms
- Suicidal thoughts
These warnings highlight the need for support and clarity before implementing such sweeping changes.
Why Are These Changes Being Proposed?
The government argues that the current system is too broad, and that reforms are needed to ensure benefits are targeted at those most in need. But critics argue the cuts are politically motivated, aimed at reducing the welfare bill at the cost of society’s most vulnerable.
Political Backlash: A Divided House
Internal Labour Party analysis indicates that in nearly 200 parliamentary seats, the number of PIP claimants exceeds the MP’s majority—suggesting this reform could sway the next election.
As many as 50 Labour MPs are considering rebellion, fearing a loss of support from disabled voters and their allies.
PIP Cuts Coming: How Disability Charities Are Responding?
Organizations like:
- National Autistic Society
- Muscular Dystrophy UK
…have released strong statements opposing the reforms, citing:
- Risk of increased poverty
- Reduced independence
- A shift away from recognizing non-visible disabilities
What Can You Do If You’re a PIP Claimant?
1. Respond to the Consultation
The government is inviting the public to share views on the proposed changes. You can respond online here:
This is your best chance to influence policy before it’s finalized.
2. Contact Your MP
MPs have the power to push back on this policy. If you feel strongly about the impact, email or visit your local MP and tell your story.
3. Get Support and Advice
If you’re anxious about what this means for your case, contact support services like:
- Scope
- Mind
- Citizens Advice
They offer free guidance, including help with reassessments and appeals.
PIP and DLA Payments Rise in April 2025 – Check If You’re Getting the Maximum!
Labour’s Welfare Cuts– Who Will Be Affected the Most?
£5 Billion Welfare Cuts Under Labour: How It Can Impact Your Finance?
FAQs on PIP Cuts Coming
Will I automatically lose PIP after April 2026?
Not necessarily. You’ll be reassessed under the new rules only after April 2026, and only during your next scheduled review.
Can I appeal if I lose my PIP under the new rules?
Yes. You have the right to appeal any DWP decision. Be prepared to present medical evidence and detailed information about how your condition affects your daily life.
What if I only have mental health needs? Will I be disqualified?
Mental health needs are still recognized under the new system, but if your needs don’t add up to 4 points in a single task, you may no longer qualify.
How much could I lose if I’m removed from the system?
The estimated loss ranges from £4,200 to £6,300 per year, not including linked benefits you may also lose.
