How long does a PIP decision take?
In July 2026, new PIP claims took around 18 weeks on average, from the first call to a decision. Most of that is waiting for the form to come back and for the assessment. Yours may be quicker or slower. If you're awarded PIP, it's usually paid from the date your claim started, so the wait is covered.
Around 18 weeks on average in July 2026, from the first call to a decision.
In this guide
In short
- Around 18 weeks on average from first call to decision (July 2026).
- The biggest waits are usually for the form and the assessment.
- Sending the form back quickly is the one part you control.
- An award is usually paid from the date the claim started.
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The stages, in order
- Start the claim. By phone on 0800 917 2222, by post, or online in some areas.
- The PIP2 form arrives. You have 1 month to send it back.
- The assessment. Most people have one, by phone, video or in person.
- The decision. DWP writes to you with the decision and the reasons.
The latest figures
DWP publishes how long claims take. In July 2026, new claims took around 18 weeks on average from registration to a decision. That's an average across all claims. It doesn't predict how long any one claim will take.
What you can do
- Send the form back as soon as you can. You don't need to use the full month.
- Send copies of evidence you already have with the form, rather than waiting for more.
- Tell DWP straight away if your phone number or address changes, so you don't miss the assessment letter.
- If someone may have 12 months or less to live, claim under the special rules, which are much faster. See PIP for terminal illness.
If it's taking a long time
Ring the PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433 to ask where your claim is up to. Have your National Insurance number ready.
If you're struggling for money while you wait, Citizens Advice can help at no cost. They can check what else you might be able to get.
After the decision
If you're awarded PIP, it's usually paid from the date your claim started, so the first payment covers the wait. See PIP backdating and your decision letter, explained.
Common questions
How long does PIP take to be approved?
In July 2026, new claims took around 18 weeks on average from the first call to a decision. It varies from claim to claim.
How long after the PIP assessment do you get a decision?
It varies. The assessor sends a report to DWP, and a DWP case manager then makes the decision and writes to you.
Will I get back pay for the time I waited?
If you're awarded PIP, it's usually paid from the date your claim started, so the wait is normally covered in the first payment.
Who do I ring to chase my PIP claim?
The PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433. The new claims line is only for starting a claim.
Claiming is free
You can apply to DWP directly, and Citizens Advice can help at no cost. We're here if you'd rather do it yourself, at your own pace, any time, with no appointment to wait for.
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Sources
- DWP, Personal Independence Payment statistics to July 2026 - checked 27 September 2026
- PIP: how to claim - GOV.UK - checked 27 September 2026
- PIP: after you've applied - GOV.UK - checked 27 September 2026