PIP is most commonly denied because the assessor decides your daily living or mobility difficulties do not meet the required descriptors, your medical evidence is considered insufficient, or inconsistencies appear between your claim form, assessment and medical records. Many claims are refused even when conditions are genuine. If your PIP is denied, you can request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month and then appeal to a tribunal. Many decisions are overturned at appeal.
Why Is PIP Denied? The Most Common Reasons
Understanding the reason behind your denial is the first step toward a successful appeal. Here are the most frequent causes:
| Reason for Denial | Description |
|---|---|
| Insufficient Medical Evidence | Claim lacked GP reports, specialist letters, or recent diagnoses to support daily living or mobility issues. |
| Assessment Misunderstandings | The healthcare professional misunderstood or downplayed the impact of your condition during the assessment. |
| Inaccurate Form Completion | The PIP2 form ("How your disability affects you") was completed without sufficient detail or examples. |
| Fluctuating Conditions Not Properly Explained | If your condition varies, failure to describe "bad days" may result in an unfair score. |
| No Face-to-Face Assessment | Some claims are decided without a full assessment, especially during backlogs or remote evaluations. |
| Non-Attendance at Assessment | If you miss your appointment without good reason, the claim is likely to be refused. |
What to Do if Your PIP Claim Is Denied
-
Read the Decision Letter Carefully
It will outline how points were awarded and why you didn’t meet the threshold. -
Request a Mandatory Reconsideration
This is the first stage of appeal. You must do this within one month of the decision date. Submit additional medical evidence if available. -
Submit an Appeal to a Tribunal
If the reconsideration fails, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. Most hearings are now conducted remotely or by paper submission. -
Gather Supporting Evidence
Include GP letters, consultant reports, medication lists, occupational therapy reports, and diary entries showing daily challenges. -
Get Advice
Charities like Citizens Advice, Scope, and Age UK offer free help in preparing appeals.
| Activity | Why People Lose Points | What DWP Looks For |
|---|---|---|
| Preparing food | GP forms say “can cook” without detail | Safety, repetition, time taken |
| Managing therapy | Therapies not documented | Frequency, assistance needed |
| Walking/mobility | Assessor observes short walk | Consistency over 12 months |
Appeal Success Rate: Why It’s Worth It
According to UK government statistics, over 70% of PIP appeals succeed when taken to a tribunal, especially if the applicant presents solid medical evidence and detailed accounts of how their condition affects them.
How Long Does a PIP Appeal Take?
-
Mandatory Reconsideration: Typically 2 to 8 weeks
-
Tribunal Hearing: Can take 4 to 6 months, depending on location and backlog
It’s a long process, but often worth it, especially if your daily living or mobility is significantly affected.
FAQ: PIP Denials and Appeals
Why is PIP so hard to get?
PIP assessments are strict and require detailed evidence. Many claims are denied due to lack of supporting documents or misunderstood symptoms.
How do I challenge a PIP decision?
Start with a mandatory reconsideration, then appeal to a tribunal if the decision remains unchanged.
Can I submit new evidence during an appeal?
Yes. In fact, including additional medical evidence can significantly improve your chances of success.
What happens if I miss the deadline to appeal?
You may still be allowed to appeal if you have a good reason, but you must explain the delay clearly and in writing.
Do I need a lawyer to appeal PIP?
No. Many applicants win appeals with the help of charities or by representing themselves. Legal aid is rarely available, but support services are.
Does appealing PIP stop my other benefits?
No. Other benefits (like Universal Credit) continue unless specifically affected by the PIP decision.
Other articles that might interest you:
Which medical conditions qualify for PIP in 2025?
Can I be a paid carer for my parents in 2025?
Avoid common mistakes when claiming attendance allowance
Am I legally responsible for my elderly parents?
Is moving into a care home tax-deductible in the UK?
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