Thousands of UK residents could receive up to £9,747 in tax-free financial support in 2025 through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This substantial benefit is available to individuals with long-term physical or mental health conditions under the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) scheme in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland — or its Scottish equivalent, the Adult Disability Payment (ADP).
This article explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect from this government support initiative.
What Is the £9,747 Support?
The maximum £9,747 per year payout is made up of two components under PIP or ADP: the daily living component and the mobility component. If a claimant qualifies for both components at the enhanced rate, they receive up to £187.45 per week, which totals £9,747.40 annually.
These payments are made every four weeks and are designed to help those with disabilities manage the additional costs of daily living and mobility challenges.
Crucially, this benefit is non-means-tested, meaning a person’s income or savings do not affect their eligibility. It is also tax-free, offering vital financial support to those who need it most.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for PIP or ADP in 2025, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be aged 16 or over and under State Pension age.
- Have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability that impacts daily life or mobility.
- Have experienced these difficulties for at least three months, with the expectation they will continue for at least nine more months (unless terminally ill).
- Be resident in the UK, with some exceptions for members of the armed forces or individuals abroad under certain circumstances.
For full eligibility details for PIP, visit: www.gov.uk/pip
Changes on the Horizon
It’s important to note that from November 2026, the UK Government plans to tighten the eligibility rules for PIP. Claimants will be required to score at least four points on one of the daily living tasks in the assessment to qualify for the daily living component.
While these changes are not yet in effect, potential claimants should be aware of the evolving criteria and apply sooner rather than later if they believe they are eligible.
How to Apply
For Residents in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland:
To begin a claim for PIP, applicants must:
- Call the DWP to start the application: 0800 917 2222
- Complete a form titled “How your disability affects you”, which includes details about the condition, its impact on everyday life, and any treatments.
- Provide supporting medical evidence, such as doctor’s letters, treatment records, or care plans.
- Attend a face-to-face or telephone assessment carried out by an independent health professional.
For Residents in Scotland:
Scotland’s ADP scheme is handled by Social Security Scotland, and the application process differs slightly:
- Applications can be made online.
- Applicants will complete a self-assessment questionnaire and provide medical documentation where possible.
- Some may be invited for a consultation, though the Scottish system emphasizes a more holistic, less intrusive approach.
Payment Structure
Here’s a breakdown of the payment rates as of 2025:
- Daily Living Component
- Standard rate: £72.65/week
- Enhanced rate: £108.55/week
- Mobility Component
- Standard rate: £28.70/week
- Enhanced rate: £78.90/week
Claimants who qualify for both components at the enhanced rate receive the full £187.45 weekly.
Payments are made every four weeks into the recipient’s nominated bank account.
Additional Considerations
Receiving PIP or ADP does not affect other benefits such as Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). In fact, qualifying for PIP may make you eligible for extra financial support through other benefit systems.
For example, PIP claimants may receive:
- Carer’s Allowance if someone looks after them.
- Motability Scheme access for those who qualify for the enhanced mobility rate.
- Disability premiums in other benefit calculations.
Final Thoughts
For those living with a chronic illness or disability, the cost of everyday living can be significantly higher. The DWP’s PIP and Scotland’s ADP offer essential support — up to £9,747 per year — to help manage these costs and maintain a quality of life.
Applying can seem daunting, but support is available from local councils, charities, and advocacy groups like Citizens Advice (www.citizensadvice.org.uk).
If you believe you or someone you care for may be eligible, take the first step now by contacting the DWP or Social Security Scotland. The earlier you apply, the sooner you can access the support you may be entitled to.