The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has begun reassessing thousands of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims following a key 2019 Supreme Court ruling. The review focuses on how “social interaction” needs were handled in claims submitted between 6 April 2016 and 18 July 2019. As a result, those who were previously denied, or awarded at a lower rate, may be entitled to back payments of up to £12,000.
Table of Contents
Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Review Period | 6 April 2016 – 18 July 2019 |
| Social Interaction Needs | Includes in-the-moment support (comfort, safety, calming) |
| Estimated Back Pay | £3,000 – £7,000 (underpaid) £8,000 – £12,000+ (3+ years underpaid) Up to £10,000 (rejected but now eligible) |
| Affected Claimants | Mental health conditions impacting social interaction such as anxiety, PTSD, autism, depression |
| Number of Claims Under Review | ~326,000, with ~79,000 already reviewed and ~14,000 payments issued totalling £74 million |
| Review Deadline | DWP aims to complete by end of 2025 |
| How to Check | Call DWP: 0800 121 4433 (voice) or 0800 121 4493 (textphone) |
Eligibility Criteria
To see if you qualify, check whether during the specified period:
- You submitted a PIP claim between April 2016 and July 2019.
- You have a mental health condition that affected your social interactions.
- You needed someone to help you feel safe, calm, or communicate during interactions.
- You were either denied PIP or received a standard (not enhanced) award due to previous misinterpretation.
Common Conditions That May Qualify:
- Autism, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression .
Back Payment Estimates
Depending on your situation, expected payouts include:
- Underpaid claims: £3,000–£7,000
- Long-term underpayment (3+ years): £8,000–£12,000+
- Previously rejected cases now approved: Up to £10,000.
How to Check and Claim
- Review all old PIP paperwork from 2016–2019.
- Consider if you needed unplanned help during social interactions (e.g., calming, prompting).
- Collect evidence: letters from GPs, psychologists, carers or family.
- Contact DWP:
- Voice: 0800 121 4433
- Textphone: 0800 121 4493
Ask if your claim is under the MM judgment review.
- Seek expert help: Citizens Advice or welfare advisors can help strengthen your case.
Example Case:
Emma, aged 32, had social anxiety and agoraphobia. Her 2017 claim was denied, but after the review, she received £9,200 in back payments and now gets the enhanced daily living rate
Why It Matters
This reassessment corrects a fundamental oversight—ensuring that everyday psychological needs, not just formal care plans, are recognised under PIP. It’s a significant step toward fair evaluation and ensuring individuals receive the support they deserve.
FAQs
1. Will I automatically be contacted by DWP?
A = Not always — it’s best to act proactively and call them yourself.
2. What evidence do I need?
A = Bring medical reports, therapist letters, care plans, or written statements from famliy/friends.
3. How long does the review take?
A = Typically 6–12 weeks, but more complex cases may take longer.
