For many individuals approaching retirement, one of the biggest concerns is whether they will continue to receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP) . If you've been awarded PIP before reaching State Pension age , it’s important to understand how your entitlement evolves and what changes, if any, might occur after you turn 66. In this guide, we explain how to keep your PIP after retirement , clarify the PIP pension changes , and address the most common questions seniors have about PIP continuity.
Can You Keep PIP After 66?
Yes. If you were awarded PIP before reaching State Pension age, you are allowed to keep receiving it after retirement, provided your health needs remain the same or worsen.
Unlike other benefits that end or change when you reach pension age, PIP is not automatically stopped. However, you may be subject to periodic reviews depending on the length of your initial award.
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Key Rules for Keeping PIP After State Pension Age
Here’s a summary of how PIP functions once you pass the State Pension threshold:
| Criteria | Before Retirement | After Retirement |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must be under State Pension age to apply | You can continue receiving PIP if you qualified before pension age |
| Medical Review | Periodic reviews depending on condition | May still happen, but often less frequently |
| Changes in Circumstances | Must be reported | Still must report health changes or care needs |
| Amount Paid | Based on assessment of daily living/mobility needs | No change to rate due to retirement status |
| New Claims | Accepted if under pension age | Must claim Attendance Allowance if over pension age |
What Stays the Same After Retirement?
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Your PIP amount will remain the same unless your condition improves or deteriorates.
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You do not lose your PIP just because you receive a State Pension.
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The mobility and daily living components are still paid based on your assessed needs.
What You Cannot Do After Retirement
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If you’re over State Pension age, you cannot start a new claim for PIP.
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Instead, you must apply for Attendance Allowance, which does not include a mobility component.
This distinction is crucial for those planning to apply shortly before retirement applying before you reach pension age ensures access to both PIP components.
Maintaining Your PIP: Best Practices
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Respond to any reassessment notices sent by the DWP.
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Keep medical documentation up to date in case you are asked for evidence.
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Report changes in care needs, diagnosis, or treatment.
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If your condition worsens, you may request a re-evaluation for a higher rate.
FAQ: PIP After Retirement
Can you still get PIP after age 66?
Yes, as long as you were already receiving PIP before reaching State Pension age, you can continue to receive it.
Do you need to reapply for PIP after retirement?
No. There is no need to reapply unless your award has a set end date. However, you must participate in any reviews.
Does PIP stop when you start getting your State Pension?
No. PIP is separate from the State Pension and continues if you were eligible before retirement.
What happens if your health worsens after 66?
You can still request a reassessment for PIP even after State Pension age, but you cannot start a new claim if you were not already receiving it.
Can you receive both PIP and Attendance Allowance?
No. You cannot receive both at the same time. If you're on PIP, you cannot claim Attendance Allowance, and vice versa.
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