Will I be assessed if I make a claim for PIP?

When you claim PIP, it is likely that you will be asked to attend a medical assessment, also known as ‘the consultation’ which is part of the overall assessment process.

Assessments are carried out by telephone, video link or at a face-to-face appointment.

The UK Government is encouraging assessment providers to increase the number of face-to-face appointments, and we recognise this might be a barrier for some people. If you're is offered one type of assessment but would prefer a different one, contact the assessment provider and request the type of assessment be changed. It may be necessary to do this as a request for a reasonable adjustment under the Equality Act.

As of summer 2026, all face-to-face and telephone assessments are supposed to be recorded by default (you can opt out of this process). Recordings of video assessments will be introduced at a future date.

If you're asked to do so, irrespective of type, it is very important that you attend the consultation. If you do not do this and do not have a good reason (sometimes called a good cause) then this could mean that the DWP or DfC in Northern Ireland reject your claim for PIP.

You will be assessed by a health professional working for a private company that carries out PIP assessments for the DWP/DfC. The company is known as an assessment provider. They send a report (usually called a PA4) to the DWP/DfC. The final decision on your entitlement is made by a decision maker at the DWP/DfC, using the report from the assessor and any supporting medical evidence. It's possible for you to request a copy of the report to be sent to you.

Please also see I'm an adult currently receiving DLA, do I have to claim PIP?

For further information see RNIB's PIP webpage.

Updated 07.09.26

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