Which Personal Independence Payment number should you call?
The correct number depends on where you live and whether you are starting a claim or contacting the office about an existing award. Using the wrong line can delay help because new claims and ongoing cases are handled separately.
| Reason for calling | Official telephone number | Who it applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Existing PIP claim, review or award | 0800 121 4433 | England and Wales |
| Start a new PIP claim | 0800 917 2222 | England and Wales |
| Textphone for an existing claim | 0800 121 4493 | England and Wales |
| Textphone for a new claim | 0800 917 7777 | England and Wales |
| Social Security Scotland | 0800 182 2222 | Adult Disability Payment enquiries in Scotland |
| Existing PIP claim | 0800 587 0932 | Northern Ireland |
| New PIP claim | 0800 012 1573 | Northern Ireland |
These contact details are published by GOV.UK, Social Security Scotland and Northern Ireland's Department for Communities. GOV.UK states that calls to its PIP telephone numbers are free from landlines and mobiles.
Warning: Scotland has replaced PIP for new working-age disability claims with Adult Disability Payment. Do not start a PIP claim through DWP if Social Security Scotland is responsible for your application.
Use the right line for an existing PIP claim
Call 0800 121 4433 in England or Wales if you need to report a change, discuss a review, check whether evidence has arrived or ask about an existing payment. Have your National Insurance number, full name, address and date of birth ready for DWP security checks.
Tell the adviser clearly what outcome you need. If you are reporting a change in how your condition affects you, explain when the change began and whether it is expected to continue rather than simply stating that your diagnosis has changed.
Practical tip: Write down the date and time of the call, the adviser's name if provided, and what was agreed. Ask whether you must also supply information in writing and note any deadline given.
If your query concerns eligibility rather than a live claim, read SupportFund's PIP guidance before calling. A benefits calculator can also identify other support that may be available alongside PIP.
Starting a new claim by telephone
In England and Wales, start a new claim through the DWP new claims line on 0800 917 2222. Calling does not usually complete the assessment: it begins the claim and allows DWP to collect identity, contact, banking and healthcare details.
Information to prepare
- Your National Insurance number and date of birth.
- Your address, telephone number and bank or building society details.
- Your GP, health professional or support worker's contact details.
- Dates of any recent hospital, care-home or residential stays.
- Details of time spent abroad, where relevant.
Describe the help you need with daily living and mobility reliably, not only the name of your condition. In PIP decision-making, DWP considers whether activities can be completed safely, to an acceptable standard, repeatedly and within a reasonable time.
If telephone claiming creates a barrier, tell DWP what support or reasonable adjustment you require. Wider help with disability-related entitlements is available through SupportFund's disability benefits resources.
Accessible contact options and help from another person
Relay UK users in England and Wales can dial 18001 followed by the relevant PIP telephone number. GOV.UK also provides a British Sign Language video relay option through the official PIP contact page.
You may have someone with you during the call, but DWP will normally need to confirm your identity and obtain permission before discussing the claim with them. A formal appointee can manage a claim where a person cannot manage their own benefit affairs; appointment is subject to DWP approval.
If you cannot use the telephone
- Check the official GOV.UK PIP page for current accessibility routes.
- Ask DWP for a reasonable adjustment suited to your communication needs.
- Use the address shown on your latest PIP letter when sending evidence.
- Keep copies of documents and obtain proof of posting.
Do not post original medical records unless DWP specifically requests them. Label copied evidence with your full name and National Insurance number, while avoiding unnecessary personal information on the outside of the envelope.
Avoid scams and protect important PIP deadlines
DWP may contact claimants during an application or review, but you should not disclose banking passwords, card PINs or one-time security codes. If an unexpected caller pressures you to transfer money or pay a fee to release PIP, end the call and use the number published on GOV.UK.
A telephone call does not automatically extend the deadline on a review form, evidence request or challenge. Ask explicitly whether an extension has been accepted and record the new date; where possible, request written confirmation.
Deadline warning: A call asking for more time is not the same as receiving an extension. Submit what you can by the stated date unless DWP confirms different arrangements.
If a delayed or disputed decision leaves you unable to cover essentials, SupportFund can help you explore emergency help and local support while the benefit issue is addressed.
Rates and procedures can change: confirm the current 2026/27 PIP rates, contact details and claim rules on GOV.UK before acting.