PTSD and PIP: Complete Guide to Descriptors & Points

If you have PTSD, 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 PTSD Affect?

Engaging with other people face to face

  • Descriptor 9c: Needs social support to engage with other people — 4 points (e.g. companion to de-escalate, support during masking burnout)

Planning and following journeys

  • Descriptor 11b: Needs prompting to undertake any journey — 4 points (e.g. anxiety about leaving house, needs encouragement)

How to Claim PIP for PTSD

  1. Use our free PIP eligibility checker to estimate your points
  2. Answer based on your worst days, not your best days
  3. Remember the reliability test: can you do it safely, repeatedly, to an acceptable standard, in a reasonable time?
  4. 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.