Receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is more than a standalone benefit. it can act as a gateway to a wide range of additional entitlements and support. For many people in the UK, particularly those living in London, understanding these associated benefits can help improve their quality of life, financial stability, and access to essential services.
This guide explores the full scope of what else you may be entitled to when receiving PIP and how to unlock these benefits.
What Is PIP and Who Can Receive It?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) supports individuals aged 16 and above who face long-term health challenges or disabilities that impact their everyday living or ability to move around independently.
It’s a non-means-tested benefit, meaning your income, savings, or employment status won’t affect eligibility.
Components of the benefit
PIP is broken into two parts:
- Daily Living Component: for those who need help with everyday tasks.
- Mobility Component: for those who struggle to get around.
Each component is paid at either the standard or enhanced rate depending on the severity of the condition.
Can I Get Universal Credit If I’m on PIP?
Integration with income-based support
While PIP is not income-based, it doesn’t prevent individuals from receiving Universal Credit. In fact, being on PIP can lead to additional elements within a Universal Credit claim, such as the Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) component, which brings in more monthly support.
Financial and employment considerations
Claimants of both PIP and Universal Credit may also receive transitional protections and exemptions from certain work-related conditions. This is particularly valuable for those who have been moved over from older benefits like ESA or Income Support.
Am I Eligible for Housing Benefit with PIP?
Additional housing support
PIP recipients, especially those on lower incomes or in receipt of Universal Credit, may qualify for help with housing costs. If you’re renting from a council or housing association, you may receive Housing Benefit, and those on Universal Credit will have a housing cost element included.
Adjustments for disability
In many cases, individuals receiving the enhanced rate of the mobility component may be eligible for larger or specially adapted homes. This could be considered when calculating local housing allowances or when applying for grants such as Disabled Facilities Grants for home adaptations.
Does PIP Qualify Me for a Council Tax Reduction?
Local authority schemes
Nearly all councils in the UK operate Council Tax Reduction (CTR) schemes that consider disability status. PIP claimants, especially those on the enhanced daily living component, often qualify for significant reductions, sometimes up to 100% depending on household income and other benefits.
Council-specific policies
Because each council sets its own rules, it’s important to check directly with your local authority in London. Many also offer disability discounts if a home has been adapted for the disabled individual, such as installing a stairlift or widened doors.
Can I Receive Carer’s Allowance If Someone Looks After Me?
Supporting informal carers
If someone looks after you and you receive the daily living component of PIP, they may qualify for Carer’s Allowance. Unpaid carers who provide at least 35 hours of support per week may be eligible for financial assistance through this benefit.
Financial thresholds and obligations
To be eligible, carers must not earn above a specific income threshold and must not be in full-time education. This allowance can be essential for family members or friends who provide day-to-day support, and may also impact the Severe Disability Premium, depending on living arrangements.
What Travel and Mobility Benefits Can I Claim with PIP?
Parking privileges and public transport access
If you receive the enhanced rate of the mobility component, you’re automatically eligible for the Blue Badge scheme. It grants eligibility for designated disabled parking spots and may exempt the holder from standard parking fees in many locations.
Transport concessions
Living in London adds additional benefits. For instance, PIP recipients may qualify for a Freedom Pass, granting free travel across Transport for London (TfL) services. Nationally, the Disabled Person’s Railcard offers 1/3 off rail fares, and some bus services offer free or discounted travel for disabled individuals.
Motability scheme access
The Motability Scheme allows eligible PIP claimants to exchange their mobility component for a lease on a car, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, or scooter. This enhances independence and makes travel significantly easier.
Is There Help with Healthcare Costs for PIP Claimants?
Prescription and treatment costs
While PIP alone doesn’t guarantee free NHS prescriptions, many PIP recipients also receive income-based benefits like Universal Credit, which can entitle them to free prescriptions, dental treatments, and eye tests.
Travel to hospital appointments
For medical-related travel, PIP recipients might be able to claim for hospital transport costs under the NHS Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme, especially if they also qualify for income-related benefits.
Can I Get Extra Premiums Like the Severe Disability Premium?
Disability-related financial additions
One of the key benefits associated with PIP is eligibility for disability premiums. These are additional amounts added to legacy benefits like Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Employment and Support Allowance.
Severe and enhanced disability premiums
- Severe Disability Premium (SDP) is available to those receiving the daily living component of PIP and who live alone.
- Enhanced Disability Premium can also apply if the person is receiving the enhanced rate of PIP.
These premiums are being phased out under Universal Credit, but many legacy claimants still receive them.
Are There Discounts and Grants Available for PIP Claimants?
Utility support and energy savings
PIP claimants may access schemes such as the Warm Home Discount, which reduces electricity bills, or Winter Fuel Payments to help with heating costs during colder months.
Charitable and government-backed grants
Many energy providers and non-profits offer one-off grants for PIP recipients struggling with bills or home adaptations. Organisations like Scope and Turn2us list available grant schemes tailored to individual circumstances.
How Do I Apply for Additional Support When I Get PIP?
Documentation and evidence
To claim most of the additional benefits, you’ll need to submit evidence of your PIP award. This usually means the award letter from the DWP, showing the component and rate you receive.
Using benefit calculators
Online tools such as the Turn2us Benefits Calculator or the one offered by Entitledto.co.uk can help determine what you’re eligible for based on your unique situation.
What Should I Know Before Applying for These Benefits?
Impact of multiple claims
While receiving PIP unlocks many opportunities, each benefit has its own set of eligibility criteria. Some are means-tested, while others depend solely on your PIP component and rate.
Maintaining accurate records
Keep your award letters, medical documents, and benefit applications in one place. Changes in your health or circumstances must be reported to avoid overpayments or penalties.
Where Can I Get Help with Claiming These Benefits?
Expert advice and support organisations
Several national charities and advisory services can help you understand and apply for your full entitlements:
- Citizens Advice provides in-person and online advice.
- Disability Rights UK offers factsheets and helplines.
- Turn2us lists grants and operates an easy benefits checker.
- Scope supports disabled individuals with benefit advice and applications.
Benefits You Can Claim with PIP
| Benefit | Eligibility | Access Point |
| Universal Credit | Low income and PIP can add LCWRA | DWP / GOV.UK |
| Housing Benefit | Renters not on UC or in supported housing | Local council |
| Council Tax Reduction | Depends on PIP rate and income | Local authority |
| Carer’s Allowance | If someone cares for you 35+ hours/week | GOV.UK |
| Blue Badge | Enhanced mobility component of PIP | Local council |
| Freedom Pass / Railcard | Disability and PIP documentation | TfL / National Rail |
| Severe Disability Premium | On legacy benefits and PIP Daily Living | Through ESA or IS claim |
| Free NHS Prescriptions | With income-related benefits | NHS Low Income Scheme |
| Warm Home Discount / Energy Grant | Income-related + PIP qualification | Through energy supplier or GOV.UK |
Conclusion
Receiving PIP opens the door to a wide range of additional benefits in the UK, from housing and council tax support to travel concessions, healthcare assistance, and financial premiums.
While the system can seem complex, exploring your entitlements ensures you’re not missing out on valuable support. If you’re unsure where to start, trusted organisations like Citizens Advice and Turn2us can help guide you through the process.
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FAQs
Can PIP be used to claim free public transport in London?
Yes, PIP recipients may be eligible for a Freedom Pass, which allows free travel on TfL services.
Does receiving PIP affect savings limits for other benefits?
PIP itself is not means-tested and does not affect savings limits, but other benefits like Universal Credit may have thresholds.
Can I claim benefits while appealing a PIP decision?
Yes, you may be entitled to other benefits during the appeal process depending on your income and housing situation.
Is PIP awarded for mental health conditions?
Yes, PIP is awarded based on how a condition affects your life, including mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression.
Will getting PIP impact my credit score?
No, benefits like PIP are not recorded on credit reports and do not affect your credit score.
Can I still work while receiving PIP?
Yes, you can work while receiving PIP as it is not based on income or employment status.
How often is PIP reviewed or reassessed?
PIP is usually reviewed every few years depending on the award length. You will be notified by DWP in advance.
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