The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has revealed the updated list of respiratory conditions that qualify for the weekly Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This benefit provides crucial financial support for millions of people across England and Wales, helping to cover extra costs associated with long-term disabilities, physical health conditions, or mental health challenges.
As of April 2026, more than 3.7 million claimants rely on PIP. The benefit is tax-free and non-means-tested, focusing on the impact a condition has on a person’s daily life rather than income, employment, or savings.
Understanding Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
PIP is designed to help individuals with daily living and mobility needs. Eligibility is determined based on how much a condition affects everyday life.
The benefit is divided into two components:
- Daily Living Component – Supports activities like preparing food, managing medication, and personal care.
- Mobility Component – Supports walking, moving around, and travelling independently.
Applicants can qualify for one component, both components, or neither, depending on their assessment outcome. Earlier in 2026, the DWP updated payment rates and added 92 new eligible conditions. This followed a 3.8% inflation adjustment to ensure payments reflect living costs.
Current PIP Payment Rates 2026
| Component | Standard Rate | Enhanced Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Living | £76.70 per week | £114.60 per week |
| Mobility | £30.30 per week | £80.00 per week |
Maximum support, which includes the enhanced rates for both components, totals £194.60 per week (£778.40 per four-week pay period). Those qualifying for the standard rates for both components receive £107.00 per week (£428.00 per four-week pay period).
Respiratory Conditions Qualifying for PIP
Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract Diseases
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (chronic bronchitis / emphysema)
- Bronchiectasis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Asthma
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pneumoconiosis
- Granulomatous lung disease and pulmonary infiltration
- Disease of the pleura
- Heart and lung transplantation
- Pulmonary embolus
Infectious and Other Respiratory Diseases
- Infectious diseases of the respiratory tract
- Other diseases of the lower respiratory tract
- Sleep apnoea (obstructive)
- Other diseases of the upper respiratory tract
Fibrotic and Occupational Conditions
- Extrinsic allergic alveolitis
- Fibrosing alveolitis
- Asbestosis
- Silicosis
- Sarcoidosis
Pleural and Pulmonary Complications
- Empyema
- Pleural effusion
- Pneumothorax
- Pulmonary embolus
- Pneumonia
This comprehensive list ensures that claimants with chronic or complex respiratory conditions can access the financial support they need.
How PIP Supports Claimants
PIP helps offset the extra daily costs that arise from living with a long-term condition. Unlike other benefits, it does not depend on employment status or income, making it accessible for a wide range of individuals.
The two-component system allows for flexible support:
- Individuals with mobility challenges may focus on the mobility component.
- Those requiring help with daily living tasks receive support for personal care and household activities.
- Many claimants qualify for both components, receiving the maximum payment amount.
The updated 2026 rates reflect inflation and include new conditions, ensuring the system remains fair and effective.
The DWP’s updated PIP list highlights the importance of supporting claimants with respiratory conditions. With millions relying on this benefit, understanding eligibility criteria and payment rates is essential.
Financial support through PIP helps individuals manage daily living and mobility challenges, ensuring a better quality of life for those with chronic respiratory conditions. By knowing the qualifying conditions and weekly rates, claimants can plan effectively and ensure they receive the support they need.
