DWP could stop PIP payments if claimants do not tell them about certain changes

People who are receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP) from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) risk losing their essential monthly payments if they forget to tell the government about a change in their circumstances - and it is not easy to keep track of all of them.

Some things, like changing your name, your doctor, or your address, does not have to be reported to the DWP right away, as it will not impact on your ability to claim PIP benefits. But, if you are planning on taking a long holiday, you could return home and see your payments paused or stopped entirely.

Any PIP recipients who are planning on an extended holiday in the summer sun are best advised to contact the DWP with the details as soon as possible. This includes where you are going, why, and exactly when you will be out of the country, reports the Daily Record.

READ MORE: DWP confirms dates for 'crucial' change affecting anyone with a pension

Guidance in the 2024 edition of the PIP Handbook on GOV.UK states: “This change may affect the claimant’s entitlement to PIP. We will need to know the date the claimant is leaving the country, how long they are planning to be out of the country, which country they are going to and why they are going abroad.”

Contact the PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433 to report a change of circumstances - lines are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Just be aware opening hours may change over the festive fortnight.

Here is a comprehensive guide to all the changes in circumstances and whether you need to contact the DWP about them.

You should tell DWP if, for example, you need more or less help or support or the condition will last for a longer or shorter time than you previously told DWP about.

This change