Severe disability premium. Is it added automatically? Will it be backdated?

sammixx90

Hi I’ve just recently been awarded pip. Been doing some research online and seen I’m entitled to sdp. It’s says online that it’s automatically added to your benefits. Is this true? Or do I need to apply? Also will it be back dated from the beginning of my pip award ? 

calcotti

Whether or not you are eligible for SDP depends what other benefits you receive. It is not included in UC or contribution based benefits. It is not automatically added. You need to confirm that you meet the qualifying conditions in order to get it (live alone, or treated as living alone, get Daily Living PIP and no one claims Carer’s Allowance or carer element of UC for looking after you). If you are on a legacy benefit such as income based ESA they may contact you about it but otherwise you can ring them and ask. If applicable it will be backdated to the start of the PIP award (if you met all of the conditions throughout this period).

sammixx90

Thankyou for your reply …I’m on income support and live with just me and my children who are all under 18. So would you suggest I just ring them ? Or should I wait for them to contact me ? 

poppy123456

Providing you have a daily living award of PIP then you need to ring Income Support and ask to apply for the SDP. It's a very simple form that can be filled in over the phone. You should then have a decision within a few weeks.

calcotti

sammixx90 said:

Thankyou for your reply …I’m on income support and live with just me and my children who are all under 18. So would you suggest I just ring them ? Or should I wait for them to contact me ? 

I'd ring them. They may well contact you but why wait?