Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a UK benefit. It helps with extra costs if a long-term health condition or disability makes daily living or getting around hard. 

Earlier this year, the UK government made proposals to change how this support is assessed and delivered. Since then, there’s been a lot of confusion, especially around what’s being changed and how people will be affected. 

So, what’s happening? 

A closer look at the proposed changes 

One of the headline proposals was a new “four-point rule” for PIP, starting with new claims in November 2026 (Mencap).  

You would still need eight points overall, but at least four must come from a single daily-living activity.  

With the current system, points can be spread across activities, so this change would make it harder for many to qualify; the DWP estimated about 430,000 future claimants would miss out compared with the current rules (BBC).  

Changes were also proposed for Universal Credit’s health element: for new claims from April 2026, the top-up would be cut to £50 a week and frozen (GOV).  

These plans drew strong criticism from disability groups and many MPs, including concerns about limited consultation. The government’s figures initially suggested around 250,000 (CommunityCare) more people could fall into relative poverty. 

What’s actually changing, and what’s staying the same? 

After pushback, ministers changed the plan. 

PIP 

• The “four-point rule” will apply only to new claims from November 2026. 

• Current PIP awards stay on today’s rules. 

Universal Credit (health element) 

• For new claims from April 2026, the health top-up will be £50 a week and then frozen. 

• Existing recipients (and people with severe or end-of-life conditions) will keep a higher rate that will rise at least with inflation to 2029/30. 

Other updates 

• A “Right to Try” work guarantee will be introduced. 

• The PIP assessment will be fully reviewed. 

Steps you can take to feel more in control 

If you or someone close to you might need to apply after 2026, here are a few things that can help you now: 

• Speak to a trusted advice agency – agencies like Citizens Advice can help you understand how the changes might affect your situation, so you’re not caught off guard. They can also help you build your case 

• Build a small emergency fund – we know how difficult it can be to save when you’re struggling. Putting aside £5 a week can give you a buffer. If you’d like to know how to start an emergency fund, check out our handy guide 
   

• Try a simple budget planner – our Knowledge Hub includes tips to help you manage your money day-to-day, so you feel more in control 
   

• Keep an eye on your credit score – it’s helpful to know where you stand, and a strong credit score can make it easier to access support when you need it 
   

• Don’t do it alone – if your claim is delayed or denied, talk to our team. We can’t help you with your application, but we can listen and potentially signpost 
   

• Use our knowledge – we regularly update our blog, and while some of the content might not be relevant to your situation, there will be information you’ll find helpful  

Practical support, so you can feel prepared 

With changes to PIP and Universal Credit on the way, it’s understandable to feel uncertain, but you don’t have to face it alone. 

Reach out to us today to see what support you can access