What this means
GOV.UK says a health professional may ask about how a condition affects daily living and mobility tasks and about treatments. The assessment can take place in different ways, depending on the case and current arrangements.
Citizens Advice explains that a PIP assessment is not a diagnosis or a full medical examination. It is part of the evidence DWP uses when deciding a claim.
A person may be able to have someone with them. If adjustments, accessibility needs or recording are relevant, check the appointment letter and assessment-provider instructions.
Who this may affect
- This may affect people who have submitted a PIP claim and have been invited to an assessment.
- It may affect people who need accessibility adjustments, communication support, a companion, or help understanding an appointment letter.
- It may also affect people in Scotland only if they are still dealing with PIP rather than Adult Disability Payment. New Scottish applications normally use Adult Disability Payment.
What to check officially
- Check the appointment letter for the provider, format, date and instructions.
- Check GOV.UK and Citizens Advice for current assessment information.
- If the appointment cannot be attended or adjustments are needed, check the official contact route shown on the appointment letter.
Common terms on this topic
- Assessment provider
- The organisation arranging or carrying out the assessment.
- Health professional
- The person who carries out the assessment and writes a report for DWP.
- Reasonable adjustment
- A change that may help someone access a service because of disability or health needs.
- Assessment report
- The report sent to DWP after the assessment.
What this page does not do
- This page does not coach people on what to say in an assessment.
- It does not say what answers lead to an award or guarantee any outcome.
- It does not replace the appointment letter or assessment-provider instructions.
Official and trusted sources
- GOV.UK: PIP after you’ve applied
- Citizens Advice: Preparing for your PIP assessment
- GOV.UK: Personal Independence Payment
- mygov.scot: Adult Disability Payment
Last checked
Last checked: 23 June 2026.
Important disclaimer
Benefits Made Clear is an independent information website. It is not affiliated with GOV.UK, DWP, HMRC, Citizens Advice, Turn2us, MoneyHelper or any government department. This website provides general information only. It is not benefits advice, legal advice or financial advice.