An award for PIP may enable claimants to access means-tested benefits even if they have previously been told they are not eligible.

People on PIP may be able to backdate other benefits to the start of their award, they have been told. An award for PIP may enable claimants to access means-tested benefits even if they have previously been told they are not eligible.

And according to guidance in the PIP Handbook, from the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ), it may also be possible to backdate certain benefits to the start of their PIP award.

The Handbook explains: “Entitlement to PIP provides a gateway or passport to other benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance, and schemes sponsored by other departments, such as the Blue Badge scheme.

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“For many benefits and schemes there are additional qualifying conditions. For some schemes, such as Blue Badge, there are alternative ways of accessing the benefit that do not rely on a particular rate or component of PIP.

“For DWP benefits, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction, we share information to enable claimants to automatically access other disability benefits and services. However, claimants should inform other benefit offices about their entitlement to make sure they’re paid the correct amounts, particularly if there are any changes in their circumstances and awards. In most cases, claimants will need to use their PIP award letter as proof of entitlement.

“All references to a disabled child or disabled children made for passporting purposes apply only to a qualifying young person aged 16 or over, because PIP is not available to children under the age of 16.

“Carers may be able to claim Income Support (including for up to 26 weeks while the PIP claim is being assessed). And many carers may continue claiming Income Support after PIP is awarded.

“An award of PIP may enable claimants to access means-tested benefits even if they have previously been told they are not entitled to do so. Claimants should seek advice if in doubt.

“It may be possible to backdate passported benefits to the start of the PIP award.”