The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that over 3.7 million people in Great Britain currently receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP)—a disability-related benefit worth up to £749.80 every four weeks for those receiving both Daily Living and Mobility at the enhanced rate .
This article highlights the 10 most common conditions that lead to successful PIP applications, explains what’s involved, and provides rich insight into who receives the maximum support and why.
Growing Demand & Maximum Benefit Recipients
- As of January 2025, 3.7 million claimants are entitled to PIP—marking a 2% increase since October 2024.
- Notably, 37% of all successful claims receive the full enhanced rate for both Daily Living and Mobility—equating to the full £749.80 per 4-week period .
Top 10 Most Common Conditions Claimed
The DWP has identified the five most commonly recorded disabling conditions under standard rules; these, along with related reporting, closely reflect the most frequent conditions by claim volume:
| Rank | Condition | Estimated Share |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psychiatric disorders | ~39% of claims |
| 2 | Musculoskeletal disease (general) | ~19% of claims |
| 3 | Neurological disease | ~13% of claims |
| 4 | Musculoskeletal disease (regional) | ~12% of claims |
| 5 | Respiratory disease | ~4% of claims |
| 6–10 | Including Malignant, Cardiovascular, Visual, Endocrine, Hearing disorders (commonly claimed) |
These categories align with DWP’s main classifications, though more granular conditions—such as arthritis, anxiety, or stroke—fall under these broader headings .
Why These Conditions Matter
Receiving both enhanced Daily Living and Mobility components nets claimants the maximum £749.80 every four weeks, helping cover added living costs due to disability .
Top Conditions Explained
- Psychiatric disorders top the list, reflecting rising mental health-related claims.
- Musculoskeletal conditions—whether general (e.g., chronic arthritic pain) or regional (e.g., back pain)—affect mobility and daily tasks.
- Neurological diseases like MS or epilepsy often significantly impair function.
- Respiratory conditions (e.g., chronic lung disease) hinder breathing and physical exertion.
- Other commonly claimed conditions include cancers, cardiovascular problems, vision issues, endocrine disorders, and hearing impairments.
Eligibility Basics & Reforms on the Horizon
- PIP eligibility depends not simply on a diagnosis but on how the condition impacts daily living and mobility tasks.
- Under upcoming reforms, from late 2026, claimants must score minimum four points in at least one daily living activity to qualify for the daily living component. This change could see up to 800,000 people lose part or all of their PIP entitlement by 2029–30.
- Additionally, those with musculoskeletal conditions (like arthritis and back pain) are expected to be disproportionately affected by these new criteria.
The DWP’s data underscores a growing reliance on PIP’s enhanced rates, particularly among individuals with psychiatric, musculoskeletal, neurological, respiratory, and other disabling conditions.
With £749.80 every four weeks offering much-needed support, these benefits are a lifeline. But looming reforms threaten eligibility—especially for those with less visibly severe physical disabilities. It’s essential for claimants and advisors to stay informed and ready for change.
FAQs
What does £749 refer to in PIP benefits?
It reflects the four-weekly maximum payment for claimants who receive both the enhanced Daily Living (£110.40/week) and enhanced Mobility (£77.05/week) components.
Which condition category is most common among PIP claimants?
Psychiatric disorders are the most common, making up around 39% of PIP recipients under standard rules.
Will proposed changes affect current claimants?
Yes—new rules from 2026 could disqualify many, especially those with physical disabilities, unless they meet new assessment scores; ageing claimants with musculoskeletal conditions may be particularly vulnerable.