Will my PIP stop while my review is being decided?
Short answer
No — provided you return the AR1 review form by the deadline, or tell the DWP you need more time, your award continues at its current rate until a new decision is made. If payments do stop without a decision, contact the DWP immediately and get advice from Citizens Advice.
A PIP review is not a gap in entitlement. As long as you return the AR1 review form by the date given — or contact the DWP before that date to ask for more time — your existing award keeps being paid at the same rate throughout the process. Payments stopping without a decision letter is an error to challenge straight away, not something to wait out.
Why the review is happening
PIP awards are not permanent. Most carry a built-in review date: typically every one to three years for shorter awards, and up to ten years where a condition is stable and unlikely to improve. Even awards described as "ongoing" are reviewed periodically, so an AR1 landing on the mat does not mean the DWP suspects anything.
The assessment uses the same descriptors as your original claim — ten daily living activities and two mobility activities — so treat the form with the same seriousness as the first application:
- Describe what you cannot do reliably, safely and repeatedly, on your worst days as well as your best, rather than listing diagnoses.
- Gather up-to-date evidence from your GP, consultant or support worker before you return the form. This is the single biggest driver of good outcomes.
- If a face-to-face assessment is arranged and you cannot attend because of your health, request a home visit or a telephone or video assessment as a reasonable adjustment, with a supporting letter. Never simply fail to attend — that can stop your PIP altogether.
If the decision goes against you
You have one month to request a Mandatory Reconsideration of a reduced or removed award, and can then appeal to the independent tribunal. Get help from Citizens Advice or a welfare rights service early, because representation materially improves success rates.
One word of caution about asking for an early review. If your condition has worsened you can report a change of circumstances on 0800 121 4433 and ask for a higher rate — but the whole award is reconsidered, so it can also be reduced. Take advice before making that call.
Related guides
PIP Reassessment: What to Expect
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is not a permanent entitlement — the DWP reviews awards periodically to check your needs have not changed. A reassessment can happen at any time, but most awards are reviewed on a fixed schedule. Knowing what to expect, what evidence to submit, and what to do if your award changes can help you protect the support you need.
9 min
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit for people aged 16 to 64 who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability that affects their ability to carry out daily activities or get around. It is not based on your diagnosis but on how your condition affects you day to day.
14 min
Mandatory Reconsideration
If the DWP makes a decision about your benefits that you disagree with — a refusal, an underpayment, a sanction, or an overpayment decision — you cannot go straight to a tribunal. You must first request a Mandatory Reconsideration (MR). This is a free process where a different DWP decision maker reviews the original decision.
9 min
Gathering Evidence for Disability Benefits
The quality of evidence you provide with a disability benefit claim can be the difference between success and refusal. Assessors make decisions based largely on what you tell them and the evidence you provide. This guide explains what types of evidence carry weight, how to obtain it, and how to present it effectively.
7 min
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