Son's DLA, how long until we change to PIP and will we get DLA in the meantime?

Hi,

As he's just turned 16 then i'd advise you to expect that letter very soon. When a person turns 16 the PIP change over process is different to those that are over the age of 16.

Are you his appointee? If so then when you receive that letter it will invite you to apply for PIP. You then need to ring the PIP helpline to start his application off. They'll ask you some basic questions. After this you'll be sent PIP2 forms to fill in and return along with all the relevant evidence to support his claim.

You should fill out that form with as much information about how his conditions affect him as possible. Giving 2-3 examples of what happened the last time he attempted that activity for each descriptor that applies.

His DLA will continue to be paid providing you start the claim within the timeframe and return those forms by the date stated in the letter. Extra time can be given to return them if you ring and ask DWP. Once the forms are returned they'll most likely send an appointment for a face to face assessment as most people have them. After this once the assessment report is returned to DWP a decision will be made on the PIP. His DLA will end approximately 4 weeks after the decision is made. If he's awarded PIP then payments will start 3 weeks after. If he's successful with the PIP claim and the PIP is higher than the DLA award then there will be no backdated money because he's transferring from DLA.

It will be worth doing some research online as to what the PIP descriptors mean so you have some understanding.