Thousands of people across the UK may be owed up to £12,000 in back payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This follows a major change in how Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims are assessed—specifically for those with mental health conditions who need social support.
If you or someone you know made a PIP claim between April 2016 and July 2019, this guide will help you know if you qualify and what steps to take.
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Backpay
The DWP is reviewing over 326,000 PIP claims after a 2019 Supreme Court ruling, known as the MM judgment. This decision found that the DWP had wrongly limited the meaning of “social support” in PIP assessments.
Instead of considering only planned and ongoing help, the court said support needed during actual social interaction should also be factored in.
This correction means many people with conditions like anxiety, autism, or PTSD may have received too little—or nothing at all. Some could now receive up to £12,000 in backdated payments, with the average payout estimated around £5,285.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a back payment, you must meet these criteria:
- You made a PIP claim between 6 April 2016 and 18 July 2019
- You had a mental health condition affecting social interaction
- You needed help engaging with others due to distress, anxiety, or communication challenges
- Your original claim was denied or given a lower award because your social support needs weren’t fully recognised
Common Conditions That May Qualify:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- General Anxiety Disorder
- Depression
- PTSD
- Agoraphobia or social anxiety
- Schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
Even if your condition isn’t listed, you could still qualify if you needed support with face-to-face interactions at the time.
Steps
So, how do you check if you’re eligible for this DWP back payment? Follow this simple process.
Review your claim history
Did you apply for PIP between April 2016 and July 2019? Were you denied or given a lower rate than expected?
Consider your needs at the time
Did you require another person to help you speak to people, manage anxiety, or navigate social settings? If so, this could count as social support.
Collect supporting evidence
This could include:
- GP or hospital letters
- Reports from therapists or care workers
- Personal statements from carers or family
Contact the DWP
You don’t need to wait for a letter. Call them and ask if your claim is under review.
- Phone: 0800 121 4433
- Textphone: 0800 121 4493
Ask specifically about a review under the MM judgment.
Seek advice if unsure
Contact Citizens Advice, Disability Rights UK, or a welfare rights advisor if you’re confused or need help with forms.
Example
Let’s take Sarah as an example. She has autism and severe anxiety and was denied PIP in 2017. She struggled to speak to people and couldn’t attend appointments alone.
After her case was reassessed under the MM ruling, she was awarded back payments of nearly £9,000. And Sarah’s not alone—thousands more could be in the same position.
Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes that could delay or prevent your payment:
- Waiting to be contacted: Not all eligible people will be automatically reviewed
- Ignoring past denials: Even old rejections may now qualify
- Outdated contact info: If the DWP can’t reach you, you could miss out
Carers
If you’re a family member or carer, here’s how you can help:
- Check the person’s PIP history
- Help them gather evidence and speak to their GP
- Call the DWP on their behalf (with their consent)
- Support them during appeals if necessary
Expert
Ben Johnson, a welfare rights specialist, says:
“This is one of the biggest opportunities for people wrongly assessed to finally be compensated. Don’t assume the DWP will contact you—if in doubt, act now.”
He recommends seeking support from law centres, disability charities, or Citizens Advice if your case is complex or you were previously turned down unfairly.
This back payment review won’t fix everything, but it’s a huge step in the right direction. If you think you were affected, get your paperwork together, make that call, and take action today.
FAQs
Who is eligible for DWP back pay?
PIP claimants from 2016-2019 with social support needs.
What is the MM judgment?
A 2019 ruling that expanded how social support is assessed for PIP.
How much could I receive?
Up to £12,000, with an average payout of around £5,285.
Will DWP contact me?
Not always—call them if you think your case qualifies.
What documents should I prepare?
GP letters, therapist reports, care plans, or carer statements.
