A major policy shift by the UK’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could result in thousands of people receiving back payments worth up to £12,000. This follows a landmark court ruling that found many Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants were unfairly assessed—particularly those with mental health conditions. If you or someone you know was affected, this update may offer significant financial redress.
DWP to Issue Back Payments up to £12,000
The DWP is currently reassessing over 326,000 PIP claims made between April 6, 2016, and July 18, 2019. These claims are being reviewed because the DWP previously misinterpreted what qualifies as “social support,” especially for those with mental health challenges.
This misinterpretation was challenged in the 2019 Supreme Court ruling known as the MM judgment, which clarified that “social support” should include help required during, not just before or after, social interactions.
Who Is Affected?
People who may benefit from this reassessment typically:
- Applied for PIP between April 2016 and July 2019
- Have conditions like autism, PTSD, depression, or severe anxiety
- Struggled with face-to-face interactions and needed help to cope
- Were denied PIP or received lower awards due to previous assessment criteria
Average and Maximum Payment Amounts
The average back payment for eligible individuals is around £5,285, but in some cases, it may reach up to £12,000. These amounts depend on how much support a person missed out on over several years.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Claims | PIP applications from 6 April 2016 – 18 July 2019 |
| Conditions Affected | Autism, anxiety, PTSD, depression, etc. |
| Avg. Back Payment | £5,285 |
| Max. Back Payment | Up to £12,000 |
| Number of Claims Reviewed | Over 326,000 |
| Review Completion Target | End of 2025 |
| Action Needed | DWP contacting claimants, but individuals should follow up proactively |
| Contact Number | 0800 121 4433 (Textphone: 0800 121 4493) |
| Official Site | gov.uk/pip |
How to Check If You’re Eligible
If you believe you may qualify, follow these steps to determine your eligibility and potentially claim back payments:
1. Review Your PIP History
Check whether you made a claim between April 2016 and July 2019. Look at the decision letters—were you denied or given a lower award than expected?
2. Assess Your Support Needs
Ask yourself: Did you need another person’s help to manage social situations due to your condition?
3. Gather Documentation
Collect supporting evidence such as GP letters, mental health assessments, care records, or testimony from carers.
4. Contact the DWP
Call 0800 121 4433 and ask if your claim is part of the MM judgment review.
5. Get Professional Advice
Organizations like Citizens Advice, Disability Rights UK, or local advocacy groups can guide you through appeals or help you understand your rights.
Real-World Example
Sarah, diagnosed with autism and severe anxiety, was denied PIP in 2017 despite clear challenges in social interaction. In 2024, her case was reassessed under the new criteria and she received £9,000 in back payments. Many are finding themselves in similar situations.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Waiting for a letter: Not everyone will be contacted—take initiative.
- Overlooking past rejections: Your old case may now be eligible.
- Outdated contact info: Make sure DWP can reach you.
Support for Carers and Family Members
If you care for someone who might be eligible, you can:
- Review their old PIP claim paperwork
- Help collect medical or personal evidence
- Call the DWP on their behalf (with permission)
- Assist in seeking advice or filing an appeal
With reviews continuing through the end of 2025, there’s still time to claim what you may be rightfully owed.
This update marks a turning point in how disability claims are evaluated in the UK. If you or a loved one has struggled with mental health and social interaction, and received little or no PIP support between 2016 and 2019, it’s crucial to take action. Thousands have already seen positive results—and more are expected to follow.
FAQs:
What is the MM judgment?
It’s a 2019 Supreme Court decision that redefined how “social support” should be assessed under PIP rules.
Do I need to reapply for PIP?
No. This is a review of past claims, not a fresh application. But you can contact the DWP to check your status.
Will this affect my current benefits?
It could lead to higher payments if your condition was previously under-assessed, but it won’t negatively impact your existing award.