PIP - Personal Independence Payment Special Rules for End of Life Questions and Answers

Question 1

A claimant's consultant completes an SR1 form, stating the claimant has a progressive disease and their death can reasonably be expected within 12 months. The claimant has significant mobility needs. Under the Special Rules for End of Life (SRTI), what PIP award will the claimant receive?

Accepted Answer

The enhanced rate of the daily living component, with the mobility component assessed based on their needs.

Answer

Under the Special Rules for End of Life, a claimant is automatically entitled to the enhanced rate of the daily living component. The mobility component, however, is not automatic and is still assessed based on the claimant's individual needs, although this is usually done without a face-to-face assessment.

Question 2

For a PIP claim to be processed under the Special Rules for End of Life, what is the defined prognosis for the claimant?

Accepted Answer

Their death can be reasonably expected within 12 months.

Answer

The definition for a terminal illness under the PIP Special Rules is that the person has a progressive disease and, as a consequence of that disease, their death can reasonably be expected within 12 months. This timeframe was updated from a previous 6-month rule.

Question 3

Which of the following standard PIP processes is waived for a claim made under the Special Rules for End of Life?

Accepted Answer

The requirement to complete the 'How your disability affects you' (PIP2) form and attend a face-to-face assessment.

Answer

Claims under the Special Rules for End of Life are fast-tracked. This means the claimant does not have to complete the detailed PIP2 form or attend a face-to-face assessment. The claim is decided based on the medical evidence provided, usually on an SR1 form.

Question 4

A hospice nurse wishes to initiate a PIP claim for a patient under the Special Rules for End of Life. What is the primary piece of medical evidence they must arrange to support this claim?

Accepted Answer

An SR1 form completed by a doctor, specialist, or registered nurse.

Answer

The key piece of medical evidence for a claim under the special rules is the SR1 form (which replaced the DS1500). This form provides the DWP with confirmation from a medical professional that the person has a progressive disease and is not expected to live for more than 12 months.

Question 5

A claimant qualifies for PIP under the Special Rules for End of Life. How does this affect the standard 'qualifying period' for the benefit?

Accepted Answer

The qualifying period is completely waived for both the daily living and mobility components.

Answer

For claims made under the Special Rules for End of Life, the normal qualifying period (having the condition for 3 months and expecting it to last for another 9) is waived for both the daily living and mobility components, allowing the claim to be paid much more quickly.

PIP - Personal Independence Payment Practice Test

PIP - Personal Independence Payment Practice Test

PIP - Personal Independence Payment Special Rules for End of Life Questions and Answers