People on PIP may have to pay money back after DWP spending review of last year
14.06.2024 - 21:59
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) pays State Pension and welfare benefits to around 22.7 million people across Great Britain. New figures published in the 2024 Fraud and Error in the Benefit System report, show that the total number of benefit overpayments over the last year was £9.7 billion (3.7%), an increase on the £8.3bn figure for 2023.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) was introduced in 2013 and helps with extra costs caused by a long-term disability or health condition. The data shows that some £21.6bn was spent on PIP last year, a significant increase on the £17.7bn in 2022/23.
However, the figures also show that while overpayments fell from £200 million in 2022/23 to £90m last year, it could result in claimants having to pay money back to the DWP. The main reason for PIP overpayments is due to claimant error (0.3%) where someone has failed to report a change in their circumstances, specifically an improvement in their condition.
The report explains that the proportion of PIP claims overpaid last year was one in 100, the same rate as the previous year. It also said this accounted for £6 in every £10 overpaid.
Contact the PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433 to report a change of circumstances - lines are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Just be aware opening hours may change over the festive fortnight.
Here is a comprehensive guide to all the changes in circumstances and whether you need to contact the DWP about them.
You should tell DWP if, for example, you need more or less help or support or the condition will last for a longer or shorter time than you previously told DWP about.
This change may affect entitlement to PIP, the amount and the period of the PIP award.
This change may affect the