PIP Change of Circumstances: What You Must Report
When you are receiving PIP, you have an ongoing legal obligation to report certain changes to the DWP. Reporting changes is not optional — failing to do so can result in an overpayment that the DWP will require you to repay, and in serious cases, a civil or criminal penalty.
The 1-Month Reporting Rule
Most changes must be reported within 1 calendar month of when they happen. To report a change, call the PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433 or write to the DWP at the address on your award letter.
Changes That May INCREASE Your Award
Do not hesitate to report these — they may result in a higher award:
- Your condition has significantly worsened
- You have developed a new health condition or disability
- Your care or mobility needs have increased
- A previous condition has returned
When you report an increase in need, the DWP may arrange a new assessment. Prepare for this the same way as your original assessment.
Changes That May REDUCE or STOP Your Award
You must also report improvements — even though this may feel counterproductive. Failing to report an improvement that the DWP discovers later can result in an overpayment decision:
- Your condition has improved significantly
- You have had an operation that resolved a condition
- Your functional ability has increased
Personal Circumstances You MUST Report
- Going abroad: For more than 4 consecutive weeks (13 weeks if for medical treatment)
- Hospital admission: After 28 days in hospital (your PIP may be reduced or stopped)
- Moving into a care home: Funded by the local authority — PIP Daily Living may stop
- Custody: Remand or serving a sentence — PIP stops
- Death: A representative must notify the DWP
- Change of address
- Change of bank account
What Happens After You Report a Change?
The DWP will review your award following a change report. In some cases, they may:
- Continue your award unchanged
- Arrange a new assessment to review your needs
- Change your award level up or down
- Stop your award if you no longer qualify
If your award is reduced following a change report, you have the same right to Mandatory Reconsideration and appeal as with any other DWP decision. The 1-month deadline still applies.
PIP Reviews
Even without a change of circumstances, the DWP periodically reviews PIP awards. You will receive a letter and a review form (AR1 or PIP2). Treat this exactly like a new claim — complete it thoroughly with current evidence. See our Assessment Survival Guide for preparation advice.