If you’ve been told you have a life-limiting illness or are nearing the end of life, there are “special rules” in place to allow you to get tailored support from the government if needed. This includes an expedited process for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) applications, although you’ll have to claim it differently than other people.
PIP is the primary benefit available for disabled people, but under normal circumstances, according to Turn2Us, it may take approximately 20 weeks or more for a decision on claims. For those with limited time, the DWP‘s “special rules” can significantly speed up the process and grant access to the enhanced rate of daily living payments. These applicants are also exempt from the face-to-face assessment typically required as part of the application process.
To qualify for these special rules, applicants must satisfy all the following conditions:
- A medical professional has indicated you may have no more than 12 months to live
- You are aged 16 or over
- You are below the state pension age and have not previously received PIP
The DWP acknowledges the difficulty in accurately predicting life expectancy. Even if patients do not meet the 12-month criterion, the department suggests: “If a medical professional has not talked to you about this, you can still ask them to support your claim under the special rules for end of life.”
If your application is successful under the special rules, you will qualify for the top rate of the daily living component, which is £110.40 a week.
You might also be entitled to the mobility component, which ranges from £29.20 to £77.05 weekly, though this depends on your specific situation and necessities.
To apply for PIP under the “special rules”, there are three routes available. Firstly, you can phone the PIP claims line for guidance on the process.
Alternatively, secure an SR1 form from a healthcare professional, like a hospital doctor, GP, or registered nurse, who will complete it for you and may hand it to you directly or forward it to the DWP.
For those claiming Universal Credit, you can submit the SR1 form and then note in your online journal that you’ve sent the document. If you are awarded the special rules benefits for three years, the department will reevaluate your claim.
Other benefits offering special rules for people nearing the end of life include Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Universal Credit, Attendance Allowance, and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children.
