Thousands of people claim PIP across England and Wales (Image: GETTY)
Fresh figures from the Department for Work and Pensions have revealed the five most frequently recorded disabling conditions amongst those claiming Personal Independence Payments under ‘normal rules’. Approximately 99% of PIP claims are processed under these rules, while one diagnosis enables applicants to apply under slightly different ‘special rules’.
PIP offers up to £194.60 per week for people living with a mental or physical health condition or disability. The payments are designed to assist with the additional costs that often accompany life with a disability.
The benefit comprises two components; the daily living element and the mobility element. Each of these carries two separate rates, a lower and enhanced rate. Claimants receive varying rates and combinations depending on the extent to which their condition affects their daily life.
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The latest DWP figures revealed that as of January 2026, 3.9 million PIP claims were recorded, with 37% receiving the highest payment rates for both the daily living and mobility elements.
The benefit is not granted solely on the basis of a diagnosis; in fact, some people may be eligible to claim prior to receiving one. However, when submitting an application, claimants are required to list their primary disabling condition.
The DWP data indicated that the most prevalent disabling condition reported in successful PIP claims under normal rules is currently psychiatric disorders. These account for 42% of those claiming the highest rate of PIP and 70% of those receiving the enhanced daily living rate. This encompasses conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders, PTSD and learning disorders, according to Benefits and Work.
General musculoskeletal disease ranked as the second most prevalent disability condition, accounting for 19% of claims. This covers complaints such as arthritis, chronic pain, certain genetic disorders and even benign bone tumours.
Neurological disease followed, comprising just 13% of all claims, yet recording the highest proportion of claimants receiving the enhanced rate of mobility payments at 72%. This broad category ranges from muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy through to headaches and hydrocephalus.
Regional musculoskeletal disease accounted for 12% of claims, concentrating on ailments that affect particular areas of the body, such as scoliosis, amputations and injuries including fractures or dislocations.
Respiratory disease represented the smallest share, making up just 4% of claims. Cystic fibrosis, asthma, lung transplants and pneumonia all fall within this category.
To be eligible for PIP under the normal rules, claimants must be aged 16 or over but below state pension age, and have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability. Applicants must also anticipate that difficulties arising from their condition will persist for a minimum of 12 months from their onset.
Those diagnosed with a life-limiting illness and given a prognosis of 12 months or less to live by their doctor may be eligible for PIP under the ‘special rules for end of life’ scheme. These provisions enable claimants to sidestep certain eligibility requirements, fast-track their way through the application process, and qualify for the higher rate of the daily living element.
