Top Tips to Maximize Your PIP Claim Success

• Which activities you scored on.
• The points awarded for each activity.
• The total points and which component/rate (if any) you qualify for. If DWP decides you do not qualify, they will explain which descriptors did not apply.

Common reasons claims are refused

• Insufficient detail on the PIP2 form.
• Failure to provide or update supporting medical evidence.
• Underestimating fluctuating conditions (only describing “good days”).
• Missing or not attending the assessment appointment (without good reason).
• Lack of third-party observations when applicable.

If you disagree with the decision: mandatory reconsideration

If you disagree, you must request a Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) before you can appeal to a tribunal. Key points:

• Submit the MR within one month of the decision letter (you can ask for extra time if there’s a good reason).
• Explain clearly why you disagree and include any additional evidence or clarification (e.g., new medical reports).
• The DWP may change the decision after MR, or they may uphold it.

Tribunal appeal (First-tier Tribunal)

If MR upholds the decision, you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support) within one month of the MR decision. Steps:

• Complete the appeal form and submit supporting evidence.
• You can request a paper-based appeal, a hearing (in person, by phone, or video), or a decision based on documents only.
• At the tribunal, a judge reviews evidence, and you (or a representative) can give evidence and be questioned.
• Tribunals are independent; many appeals are successful, especially when new evidence or clearer explanations of daily impacts are provided.

Improving chances at appeal

• Add fresh medical evidence or detailed statements not previously submitted.
• Provide a day-in-the-life diary showing how often and why tasks are difficult.
• Use objective records (hospital letters, care plans, therapy notes).
• Consider representation from a welfare rights adviser, Citizens Advice, or a benefits specialist.
• Prepare to explain fluctuation, medication side effects, cognitive issues, or pain that affects concentration and ability.

Timeframes and practical tips

• Keep copies of everything you send to DWP.
• Note dates of application, form submission, assessment, decision, and any correspondence.
• If you miss an appointment, contact DWP immediately and get a new date — missed appointments can harm a claim.
• If you’re entitled to backdating, ask about the rules; backdating is limited but possible in some cases.

Special cases

• Terminal illness: fast-tracked decisions with different evidence rules.
• Children: PIP is only for people aged 16 and older. Children’s equivalent is Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for under-16s.
• People approaching State Pension age should check transitions to Attendance Allowance.

Summary

PIP decisions hinge on clear, detailed evidence about how a condition affects day-to-day life and mobility. Filling the PIP2 form thoroughly, submitting timely medical evidence, preparing for the assessment, and, if necessary, challenging decisions through Mandatory Reconsideration and tribunal appeals significantly improves chances of a successful outcome.

If you want, I can: help draft answers for your PIP2 form, review evidence you plan to submit (summarize key points without personal data), or outline a day-in-the-life diary tailored to specific activities.