The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released new statistics revealing how Personal Independence Payment (PIP) reviews have impacted claimants over the past five years. While many fear losing benefits during reviews, the data offers reassurance — most people keep their current payment or receive more.
Between May 2020 and April 2025, millions of PIP reviews were completed. The majority resulted in either no change or an increase, with only a small percentage seeing reductions or stops.
What the Data Shows
According to official DWP figures, 1.5 million of the 1.9 million planned award reviews (76%) ended with claimants keeping the same payment or receiving more.
Similarly, 450,000 of the 510,000 change of circumstances cases (87%) led to the same or an increased award. This is largely because claimants often report changes when their health worsens, meaning their needs — and therefore their entitlement — rise.
Planned Award Reviews
These reviews take place at the end of a fixed-term award to check ongoing eligibility. From May 2020 to April 2025, the results were:
| Outcome | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Award increased | 18% |
| Award maintained | 58% |
| Award decreased | 6% |
| Award disallowed | 17% |
Overall, three-quarters of claimants in planned reviews experienced no loss of payment.
Change of Circumstances Reviews
These occur when a claimant reports a change in their condition. Most often, the change is a deterioration, which can lead to a higher award. Over the five-year period, the figures were:
| Outcome | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Award increased | 46% |
| Award maintained | 42% |
| Award decreased | 4% |
| Award disallowed | 7% |
| Withdrawn/voluntary | 3% |
That means almost nine out of ten claimants reporting changes kept or increased their award.
What This Means for Claimants
This data should reassure those worried about PIP reviews. The majority keep their payments unchanged, and a significant share actually get more.
However, there is still a small proportion — particularly in planned reviews — where payments are reduced or stopped. This usually happens if a claimant’s needs have improved or if evidence no longer supports their previous award.
Tips for a Successful PIP Review
To improve your chances of keeping or increasing your PIP award:
- Keep all medical documents updated.
- Clearly describe how your condition affects everyday life.
- Include supporting evidence from doctors or specialists.
- Respond quickly to DWP requests.
For full rules and guidance, visit the UK Government’s official PIP page.
While anxiety around PIP reviews is understandable, the data shows most claimants maintain or improve their award. By preparing thoroughly and providing strong evidence, you can help ensure your needs are accurately assessed.
FAQs
How many PIP reviews increase payments?
About 18% of planned reviews and 46% of changes.
What percentage of PIP is reduced?
6% in planned reviews and 4% in change reviews.
What happens in a change of circumstances review?
Your award is reassessed based on updated medical and daily living needs.
Do most people lose PIP during a review?
No, most keep the same payment or get more.
Where can I check PIP eligibility rules?
Visit the UK Government’s official PIP page.
