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Contents
Transitioning from DLA to PIP can be stressful. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare.
Read more: See our Carers And Disability guide for a complete overview of this topic.
Read more: See our Pip guide for a complete overview of this topic.
Understanding the Transition
Why the Change
DLA (Old System)
PIP (Current System)
Based on medical evidence
Assessment of daily living
Largely self-reported
Face-to-face or phone assessment
Three care rates
Two components
Two mobility rates
Two rates each
Who Has to Transfer
Situation
What Happens
Working age (16-64)
Must transfer when invited
Reached State Pension age
May stay on DLA
On DLA before April 2013
May stay if over SPA
Child DLA
Must claim PIP at 16
The Transfer Process
How It Happens
Stage
What Happens
1
DWP sends letter inviting PIP claim
2
28 days to claim PIP
3
Complete PIP claim form
4
Assessment (phone/face-to-face)
5
Decision letter
6
DLA stops 28 days after PIP decision
Timeline
Step
Timescale
Letter to deadline
28 days to claim
Form to assessment
Several weeks
Assessment to decision
4-8 weeks typically
DLA continues until
28 days post PIP decision
PIP vs DLA Rates (2026/27)
Comparison
DLA and PIP use the same weekly rates for equivalent tiers. Figures below apply from 6 April 2026.