The increase in people applying for benefits to help with monthly living costs has surged with the ongoing pandemic. With people getting furloughed, redundancies or self-isolating because of new or existing health conditions, more people have felt the need to apply for financial help.

Where people are finding out about benefits, thoughts are turning to PIP and if this could be worth considering.

But many people either think they’re not entitled to it or that they won’t get it for various reasons: that somehow, they won’t meet the criteria or it doesn't apply to them.

In other words, there are a few PIP myths doing the rounds.

Here’s what we’ve found from our customers about the many misconceptions around Personal Independence Payment - and we’re here to correct these:

1. I can manage so I’m not entitled.

Many people have a health condition and adapt, doing the best they can with what they have. Some people manage day-to-day, but are in a lot of pain or struggling while they do it, not wanting to ask for help.

And while it’s great to manage and be positive, that doesn’t mean someone won’t be entitled. If you’re feeling symptoms, have a long or short-term health condition you’re well entitled to apply for PIP.

2. I work and won’t get much.

PIP isn’t worked out depending on what you earn (means-tested). It’s worked out according to a detailed range of criteria that related to your health condition (s) and the impact symptoms have on your life. Everyone is assessed individually and whether you work or not, will not affect the award.

3. I’ll be given a support worker - and I don’t want one.

There is a belief that to get financial PIP means the money has to be spent on providing a support worker, or a person to come into their home or meet with them regularly. This isn’t the case. Your PIP award is for you to use for your daily living needs - rent, bills or to invest in specific equipment you may need to help with your condition.

4. I need a diagnosis before I can claim.

While it’s better that you have at least been to see your doctor or had  some engagement with health services about symptoms, you do not necessarily need a formal diagnosis.

5. There’s no point in appealing.

Many customers refused PIP challenge the decision and are successful.

We’ve helped hundreds of customers with their claim, putting the paperwork together and explaining how it works.

It’s a no win-no fee arrangement with us, no upfront charges at all.

Need help with your rejected PIP benefit claim?

We’ll help you at every corner, navigate your way around the process and making it easy to do.

For more information, fill out a 30-second form and we’ll give you a free call to talk about your situation. From there, we can talk you through the next steps to challenge a negative PIP decision.

Not a PIP claimant? We help with most other government benefits, so please ask if you’re not sure.

Get help appealing a negative benefits decision at www.benefitanswers.co.uk