How to Request Additional Support and Adjustments During Your PIP Claim Process in the UK

When you apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you can ask for extra help or adjustments if you need them during the claim process. This support can make it easier for you to provide the necessary information and attend any assessments.

Who Can Request Additional Support?

If you have a disability, health condition, or communication difficulty that affects how you manage your claim, you can ask for support. This includes if you need:

• Someone to help you during the phone call to start your claim (for example, a family member or carer).
• A Welsh speaker if you prefer to use Welsh during your claim phone call.
• Help with completing forms, such as a home visit from a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) officer.
• Other adjustments due to sensory impairments, learning difficulties, or mental health conditions.

How to Ask for Support

When you call the PIP new claims phone line to start your claim, you can tell the advisor about any support or adjustments you need. For example, you can:

• Ask for someone else to be added to the call to help you. Note that if you use a textphone, this option is not available.
• Request a Welsh speaker if you want to use Welsh.
• Ask whether a home visit might be possible to help you complete your claim.

If you cannot make the call yourself, someone else can call on your behalf, but you will need to be with them during the call.

Adjustments When Completing the Form

After the initial phone call, you will receive a form called ‘How your disability affects you’. If you have difficulties filling in this form, you can:

• Complete it online if you applied by phone and received the link.
• Request help from a trusted person, such as a carer or support worker, to fill it in with you.
• Contact the PIP enquiry line if you need more time or have questions about the form.

Including supporting documents from your doctor, care worker, or other professionals can also help explain your condition.

Assessment Adjustments

You may be asked to attend a face-to-face assessment if more information is needed. If you require adjustments for this—such as extra time, a particular location, or assistance during the assessment—you should inform the assessment provider or the DWP as soon as possible. Always check with the official PIP contact points about what adjustments can be arranged.

Summary

Requesting additional support during your PIP claim is straightforward: let the DWP know your needs early, especially when you first call to start your claim. You do not have to manage alone—help is available to ensure your claim process is as smooth as possible.

Official reference: https://www.gov.uk/pip/how-to-claim. Always check the latest official guidance. Related forms: Browse our form category.

Important: This article provides general information. Government rules, forms and procedures can change, and this article may not reflect the latest updates. Check current GOV.UK guidance or the relevant authority before relying on it. ITG & Co. is independent and is not affiliated with a government department.