If you’ve ever received Personal Independence Payment (PIP) between July 2016 and July 2019, you could now be eligible for a back payment from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)—and it’s not just a small top-up. The average payout is around £5,285, and in some cases, it could be as high as £12,000.
This comes after a major Supreme Court ruling that found the DWP had wrongly assessed many claims—particularly those involving mental health and social interaction. Let’s walk through what this means, who’s eligible, and how to claim what you’re owed.
Overview
| Key Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Back Payment | £5,285 |
| Maximum Payout | Up to £12,000 |
| Claim Period Reviewed | July 6, 2016 – July 18, 2019 |
| Affected Conditions | Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, Autism, OCD, etc. |
| Contact DWP | 0800 121 4433 |
| Official Source | gov.uk/pip/eligibility |
Why Is This Happening?
The DWP is correcting past mistakes after a 2019 Supreme Court ruling that found many PIP assessments failed to consider how mental health conditions affect a person’s ability to interact socially.
In particular, people with conditions like anxiety, PTSD, or depression were often unfairly denied the mobility component—or given a lower rate—because their need for social support wasn’t recognised.
Now, the DWP is reviewing these past cases to make things right.
Who Might Be Eligible?
You may qualify for a back payment if:
- You applied for PIP between July 6, 2016 and July 18, 2019
- You have a condition that affects social interaction, including:
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder
- PTSD
- Depression
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- OCD
- Bipolar Disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Your ability to engage with people face-to-face was limited or required support
- You were previously denied PIP or received only a standard award
What Is PIP?
PIP is a benefit to help people with long-term conditions or disabilities manage extra costs.
It includes two parts:
- Daily Living Component – for tasks like eating, dressing, and managing finances
- Mobility Component – for getting around or needing social support to travel
Your award depends on how your condition affects your life—not the diagnosis itself. This is why many past assessments are now being rechecked, especially for people with mental health difficulties.
Real-Life Example
Meet Jane, 65, from Leeds. She was awarded the standard mobility rate in 2018, despite struggling with severe social anxiety. After the DWP reviewed her case, she received a back payment of £7,100 and now qualifies for an enhanced rate going forward.
She used the lump sum to pay off debt and upgrade her home with safety features. This one-time payment completely changed her financial stability.
How Much Could You Receive?
The exact amount you’re owed depends on:
- How long the underpayment lasted
- Whether you were eligible for both components or just one
- The rate you were wrongly assessed at
| Scenario | Estimated Back Payment |
|---|---|
| 2 years on lower mobility rate | £4,800 – £6,200 |
| Denied claim entirely | £5,000 – £12,000 |
| Underpaid both components | £7,000+ |
These payments are tax-free and don’t affect your entitlement to other benefits.
What You Should Do Now
The DWP is reviewing records and contacting eligible individuals. If they find your case is affected, they will reach out first.
Check Your Claim History
Did you:
- Apply between July 2016 and July 2019?
- Mention mental health issues or social difficulties?
- Receive a denial or only a low-rate award?
If yes, you may be due a back payment—even if you appealed or reapplied later.
Contact the DWP
If you think you qualify but haven’t been contacted, call the PIP helpline:
- 0800 121 4433
Be ready with:
- Your National Insurance number
- Details of your previous PIP claim
- Any medical letters or supporting documentation
Get Expert Help
Charities and advisers can support you with:
- Understanding the review process
- Gathering paperwork
- Appealing if you disagree with a decision
Try:
- Citizens Advice
- Disability Rights UK
- Scope
- Local advocacy groups
Still on PIP Today?
Even if you’re currently receiving PIP, you could still receive a back payment for underpayments in the past. This review is about historic awards—not your current one.
If you’re still receiving the same lower rate you were awarded between 2016 and 2019, it’s especially important to request a review.
Were You Previously Denied?
Don’t assume you’re out of luck. The DWP is also checking denied claims from this period where a mental health condition may have been misjudged.
If you were refused because your need for social support wasn’t understood, now is the time to re-engage.
How Long Will It Take?
Payments can take several weeks to a few months, depending on how complex your case is. Factors include:
- How long ago your claim was made
- How much medical evidence you have
- How many others are being processed at the same time
Once approved, payments go directly into your bank account, so make sure your details are up to date with DWP.
This PIP back payment review could provide life-changing money to people who’ve been unfairly overlooked. Don’t ignore this opportunity. If you or someone you know had a PIP claim between 2016 and 2019, now is the time to act.
Check your claim history, call the DWP, and consider getting professional support. You could be owed thousands—don’t leave it unclaimed.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £5,285 PIP back payment?
People who claimed PIP between July 2016 and July 2019 with mental health issues.
Do I need to reapply to get this payment?
No. The DWP is automatically reviewing affected claims, but you can call to ask.
What if I was denied PIP during that time?
You may still qualify for a back payment. Contact DWP or seek advice.
How long does the DWP review take?
It varies, but once approved, payments usually arrive within a few weeks to months.
Will this back payment affect my other benefits?
No. The back payment is tax-free and won’t affect other benefit entitlements.
