PIP Renewal & Review: What to Expect and How to Prepare (2026)
By the RightfulUK team • • 4 min read • Reviewed for accuracy
Your PIP award isn't permanent. Most awards are for 2-10 years, after which you'll have a review. This can be stressful, but preparation is key.
Here's everything you need to know about PIP renewals and reviews.
When Does Your PIP Review Happen?
Planned reviews: Your decision letter states your award end date. You'll receive a review form (PIP2AR) about a year before this date.
Unplanned reviews: The DWP can review your claim at any time if: - You report a change in circumstances - Your GP or hospital contacts the DWP - The DWP randomly selects your case
Important: Don't panic if you receive a review form. It's a routine process, not a sign that something is wrong.
How to Fill in the Review Form
The review form is similar to the original PIP2 form. Key tips:
If your condition has got worse: Describe the deterioration in detail. Provide new evidence.
If your condition is the same: Don't assume they'll just continue your award. Describe your difficulties as thoroughly as the first time.
If your condition has improved: Be honest, but focus on the difficulties you STILL have. Improvement in one area doesn't mean you no longer qualify.
Golden rule: Never assume they have your old information. Treat it as a fresh application and provide full details.
Gather Fresh Evidence
Old evidence won't be enough. Get NEW evidence dated within the last 6 months:
- Updated GP letter - Recent consultant letters - Current prescription list - Recent hospital records - New witness statements from family/carers - Updated care plan
Ask your GP specifically: 'Can you write a letter explaining how my condition affects my daily activities for my PIP review?'
What If Your Points Go Down?
If your review results in fewer points or loss of PIP:
1. Don't panic — You can challenge it 2. Request Mandatory Reconsideration within one month 3. Your existing payments continue during MR 4. If MR fails, appeal to tribunal — 73% success rate 5. Payments continue during appeal if you appeal within one month of MR decision
Many people actually get MORE points at review when they prepare properly.
Tips for Keeping Your Award
1. Keep a symptom diary throughout your award period 2. Save copies of medical letters as they come 3. Don't downplay your condition — assessors aren't trying to help you 4. Use the reliability test — Safely? Repeatedly? Acceptable standard? Reasonable time? 5. Get witness statements from people who see you daily 6. Return the form on time — You have one month, but you can request an extension
Related Articles
- PIP Changes 2026: What You Need to Know (Latest Updates) — 4 min read
- ESA Work Capability Assessment: What to Expect and How to Prepare — 5 min read
- PIP Denied? Here's Exactly What to Do Next (2026 Guide) — 4 min read
- How to Write a PIP Mandatory Reconsideration Letter That Works — 6 min read
Related Tools & Guides
- Free PIP Eligibility Checker — estimate your likely points
- Mandatory Reconsideration Letter Builder — challenge the DWP decision
- Tribunal Preparation Tool — practice panel questions
- PIP Condition Guides — descriptors for your condition