Obesity and PIP: Complete Guide to Descriptors & Points
If you have Obesity, you may be entitled to PIP (Personal Independence Payment). This guide shows which PIP descriptors apply to your condition and how many points you could receive.
Last updated: February 2026 | Based on Social Security (Personal Independence Payment) Regulations 2013
Which PIP Activities Does Obesity Affect?
Washing and bathing
- Descriptor 4e: Needs assistance to wash body between shoulders and waist — 3 points (e.g. spinal fusion, severe obesity)
Managing toilet needs or incontinence
- Descriptor 5d: Needs assistance to manage toilet needs — 4 points (e.g. help with clothing, help with cleaning)
Dressing and undressing
- Descriptor 6d: Needs assistance to dress or undress lower body — 2 points (e.g. cannot reach feet, cannot bend)
How to Claim PIP for Obesity
- Use our free PIP eligibility checker to estimate your points
- Answer based on your worst days, not your best days
- Remember the reliability test: can you do it safely, repeatedly, to an acceptable standard, in a reasonable time?
- Gather supporting evidence from your GP or specialist
Already Been Denied?
73% of PIP appeals succeed at tribunal. If you’ve been denied, use our Mandatory Reconsideration letter builder to challenge the decision.