Process for a positive change of circumstances

Doris wrote: I have recently undergone a change in medication and treatment, which has so far (for the past three-four weeks) proved beneficial. I am now considering writing a COC letter to the DWP regarding my DLA. Will a DM re-look at my existing DLA award and if they felt it was no longer required stop the claim, or will I still be invited to make a PIP claim ?

If I am invited to claim PIP, would it be advisable to complete the form with reference to my condition now, compared to my existing/ongoing DLA claim ?

The first thing I would say is for you to consider whether 3-4 weeks is sufficient for to decide that the changes are positive and permanent, I would speak to you GP first before notifying the DWP.

If you do notify the DWP, then you will be re-assessed from scratch, whether this for DLA or PIP will depend on whether you are in an active PIP area or not

www.gov.uk/government/publications/pip-postcode-map-uk

Any re-assessment will based on your current Care and Mobility needs, even if it is for DLA you need to treat it as if it is a new claim.

Gordon

Doris wrote: I've spoke in depth to my GP about this and he is in agreement.

It would be re-assessed under PIP. I would complete the form with my current care and mobility needs, but would feel uncomfortable not explaining the context in the 'other information' box (i.e not in anyway conflicts with my outgoing DLA award). My reasons are based on some recent cases where people have reported a positive change, asked to complete a PIP form, only to be questioned on the validity of their previous claim.

I suppose it is this current hate climate of benefit bashing by the media that gives me cause to doubt the DWPs procedures.

If you are in an active PIP area then I would expect it to be PIP but we have had a couple of members report that they have still received a DLA claim form.

Whilst there are areas that are similar, there are also many areas that are different between the DLA and PIP criteria, it is perfectly possible for someone to currently (legally) be receiving DLA and not receive a PIP award.

Please be aware, once an invitation to claim PIP is issued, you cannot retain your DLA award in the long term, so you are committed to the transfer.

I would have good look through our PIP Claim guide for more information

www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/help-for-claimants/pip

Gordon