PIP Application and Assessment Process 4

Question 1

If a claimant disagrees with a PIP decision, what is the FIRST step they must take before appealing to a tribunal?

Accepted Answer

Request a Mandatory Reconsideration from the DWP

Answer

Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) must be requested from the DWP before a claimant can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal — it is a mandatory gateway step.

Question 2

What is the time limit for requesting a Mandatory Reconsideration of a PIP decision?

Accepted Answer

1 month from the date of the decision letter

Answer

Claimants have 1 month from the date on the decision letter to request a Mandatory Reconsideration, though late requests can sometimes be accepted with good reason.

Question 3

When a PIP award is given, what is the minimum length of a short-term award?

Accepted Answer

1 year

Answer

PIP awards are given for a fixed period reviewed at intervals, and the minimum award period is typically 1 year, though most ongoing conditions attract longer awards.

Question 4

What document does DWP issue confirming the outcome of a PIP award, including the component rates and dates?

Accepted Answer

A decision notice / award letter

Answer

The decision notice (award letter) sets out whether PIP is awarded, the component (daily living and/or mobility), the rate, and the award period.

Question 5

Under the PIP assessment scoring system, what does a descriptor score of '0' signify for a given activity?

Accepted Answer

The claimant can perform the activity unaided, safely, reliably and within a reasonable time

Answer

A score of 0 for an activity means the claimant can complete it independently, safely, to an acceptable standard, and in a reasonable time period without aids or appliances.

PIP - Personal Independence Payment Practice Test

PIP - Personal Independence Payment Practice Test

PIP Application and Assessment Process 4