PIP vs Disability Living Allowance
DLA closed to new working-age claims when PIP launched in April 2013. Some adults remain on DLA and are gradually migrated to PIP. Children still claim DLA; the migration happens at age 16.
Why some adults are still on DLA
Managed migration from DLA to PIP for working-age adults has continued in batches since 2013. Migration is triggered by a change of circumstances, a planned review, or DWP invitation. By June 2026, a small cohort of working-age DLA claimants remains and is expected to receive an invitation within 12 to 18 months.
The two component shapes
- DLA has three care rates (lowest, middle, highest) and two mobility rates (lower, higher).
- PIP has two Daily Living rates (standard, enhanced) and two Mobility rates (standard, enhanced).
- There is no direct mapping. DLA highest-care may map to PIP enhanced Daily Living, but the descriptor scoring is different and the migration assessment may produce a different outcome.
Managed migration mechanics
You receive a letter inviting you to claim PIP. You must reply within 28 days. Failing to claim ends your DLA. If you do claim, your DLA continues until the PIP decision is made, ensuring no payment gap.
Transitional protections
If your PIP award is lower than your old DLA award, transitional protection is limited and is generally restricted to Universal Credit recipients moving on legacy benefits. Most DLA-to-PIP losers do not receive a top-up; this is widely criticised by welfare-rights groups but remains the policy.
Children on DLA
Children under 16 continue to claim DLA. At age 16, DWP invites the young person (or their appointee) to claim PIP. The decision is taken on PIP descriptors; previous DLA awards are not binding.