PIP Explained: How Many Hours Can I Work on PIP?

If you’re claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in the UK, there is no limit to the number of hours you can work. PIP is a non-means-tested benefit, which means it’s not affected by your income, savings, or how many hours you work.

You can be employed, self-employed, work full-time or part-time, and still receive PIP, provided you meet the eligibility criteria based on your health condition or disability.

What Is PIP?

Personal Independence Payment is a benefit for people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term illness, physical or mental health condition, or disability that affects their ability to do everyday tasks or move around.

There are two components:

• Daily Living – for help with things like washing, dressing, cooking, or communication

• Mobility – for help with moving around or planning journeys

Each part can be paid at a standard or enhanced rate, depending on how much your condition affects you.

So, I Can Work and Still Get PIP?

Yes. PIP is designed to support people who are living with long-term health conditions, not to prevent them from working.

You can work as many hours as you like and still be eligible, as long as:

• You still meet the criteria for PIP

• Your condition continues to affect your daily living or mobility

• The work you do doesn’t contradict the reasons you’re claiming (see below)

What to Be Careful Of

Although working won’t automatically affect your PIP, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Contradictory Evidence

If your job involves tasks that suggest your condition isn’t as limiting as described in your PIP claim, it could raise questions. For example:

• You claim you can’t walk more than 50 metres, but you’re working as a delivery driver

• You say you need help preparing meals, but you work in a kitchen or café

• You claim to have high anxiety in social situations, but work in customer service

In these cases, it doesn’t mean you’re being dishonest, but it may trigger a review or reassessment. Always be consistent, and if your condition has improved, inform the DWP.

2. Reassessments and Reviews

PIP is usually reviewed every few years. If you're working when a review takes place, it could affect how your condition is perceived. Be prepared to explain how your work is manageable despite your condition, or what adjustments have been made to help you stay in work.

How Is PIP Different From Other Benefits?

Unlike Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), or Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), PIP is not linked to your work status. Other benefits may have strict rules around how many hours you can work or how much you can earn — PIP does not.

In fact, you can receive both PIP and Universal Credit at the same time, though Universal Credit will take your income and work hours into account.

Final Thought

You can work as many hours as you like while receiving PIP — it’s entirely possible to hold down a job and still need support with day-to-day living or mobility. The key is that your health condition still meets the criteria for the benefit. Always report any major changes in your health or abilities, and be prepared to explain how your job fits in with your condition if reviewed.