Thousands of people claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in the UK, but people could have their benefits taken off them and even be taken to court if they fail to keep the DWP informed.
PIP is a benefit for people between 16 and State Pension age who need help with daily living tasks or getting around as a result of a disability,long-term illness or mental health condition.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could give you between £23.60 and £151.40 per week to help with these costs, usually paid every four weeks, and the amount you get depends on how your condition affects you - not the condition itself.
But many claimants are unaware of a list of changes in circumstances that must be reported or risk serious repercussions - reports The Daily Record.
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The six things you need to tell the DWP about, according to the Gov.uk website, to avoid repercussions are if:
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Your personal details change - for example, your name, address or doctor
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The help you need or your condition changes
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Your condition has worsened and you’re not expected to live more than six months
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You go into hospital or a care home
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You go abroad
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You’re imprisoned or held in detention
The Gov.UK website said: “You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances.”
How to report a change of circumstances to DWP
The PIP enquiry line is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Telephone: 0800 121 4433
Textphone: 0800 121 4493
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Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 121 4433
Video relay service for British Sign Language (BSL) users - check you can use the service here.
Find out more information on the Gov.UK website here.
