The reform of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will see it being replaced by a Personal Independence Plan (PIP) which will come into effect on the 8th April this year. This will affect anyone who is of working age from April 2013. There are no current plans to extend PIP to cover children under 16 or adults over the age of 65 however that’s not to say it won’t happen at a later date.

Although DLA is being replaced with PIP there are several things that will still stay the same:

• PIP, much like DLA will still include two separate components – mobility and daily living. • Each of the two components will include different payment rates – standard and enhanced. • PIP will be available regardless of whether the claimant is employed or not. • It will not be taxable or means tested. • DLA will still remain in place for children under the age of 16 and for those aged 65 and over.

• Those who receive War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement won’t be affected by the changes to DLA.