'I worked for the DWP - here are 3 things to do before making a PIP or disability claim'

A former Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) employee has shared crucial guidance to assist people in securing essential benefits.

The ex-worker, who handled State Pension, working age and disability benefits for 42 years, claims the tips could aid those making new applications for additional financial support.

Currently, 3.7 million individuals are receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) alone, whilst others access various benefits including Attendance Allowance and Housing Benefit. Many benefits are experiencing unprecedented claim levels.

The Daily Record reports that latest DWP and Social Security Scotland statistics reveal 3.6 million people are now claiming PIP, reports Teesside Live. Additionally, over 1.6 million are receiving Attendance Allowance and, in Scotland, nearly 315,000 are on Adult Disability Payment, according to The Daily Record.

Given the increasing numbers, the former employee has outlined the dos and don'ts of submitting a claim to maximise your chances.

1. Keep a copy of your claim

The ex-DWP worker emphasised one crucial point: claimants should "keep a copy of the claim form they submit". This could prove essential when any award comes up for review.

They noted that whilst online applications for PIP (subject to your postcode), ADP and Attendance Allowance (restricted weekly numbers) can be simpler to save on your home computer or laptop, those using paper-based forms should photocopy them prior to submission. If you do not have the copy of the health questionnaire - PIP 2 evidence form - you completed before your assessment, contact the PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433 as they can send you one. This will help with future reviews for your benefit.

It will not only remind you of your original answers to the daily living and mobility questions, but also help you explain the way your condition currently affects you.

The DWP expert told the Daily Record: "With PIP, and in some cases Attendance Allowance, the claim is allowed for a certain period of time before it is reviewed, so it is handy to know what you put down on the original claim form.

"One lady I helped with her PIP claim, I got her to keep a copy of her original claim, which made it easier for her to complete her PIP review form when the time came. Your medical condition can sometimes change from the date you submitted your original claim."

2. Gather medical evidence before you begin

She advised that when it comes to Attendance Allowance it was wise to gather all your medical evidence before you begin filling out the form. This is due to the lengthy nature of the application form.

Having medical notes and information together with relevant dates for appointments or operations can accelerate the time it takes to complete the claim.

She said: "Once you have catalogued your medical history required for the claim you are halfway there."

3. Take your time to fill out the form

She advised: "Do not try and complete the form in one sitting, as it can be mentally draining." If you complete the form online, you can save your progress and come back to it later.

She again emphasised the importance of keeping a copy of the original claim form to ensure that you "do not give any conflicting evidence when it comes to a review, which may give DWP reason to scrutinise your case further". She added: "Also if your claim is disallowed by DWP and you seek help over this, the person looking at your case can see what you have put on the original form as to why it might have been disallowed."

A successful new claim for PIP or ADP could fetch between £28.70 and £184.30 each week, equating to between £114.80 and £737.20 every four-week pay period. A successful new claim for Attendance Allowance could earn either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) each week and since the benefit is typically paid every four weeks, this amounts to either £290.60 or £434.20 every pay period.