Suspension of disability benefit assessments
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Face-to-face assessments for disability benefits have been suspended for 3 months in light of the Covid-19 outbreak. This will apply to claimants of Personal Independence Payment, Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit, and also recipients of Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.
Existing claimants
If you are currently in receipt of any of these benefits and were due for a reassessment within the next 3 months, you will continue to receive your payments during this period. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will contact you to agree alternative arrangements, such as a telephone or paper-based assessment.
New claimants
If you have recently made a new claim for benefits and you have not yet had your first face-to-face assessment, the DWP will contact you to arrange a telephone or paper-based assessment as a substitute for the face-to-face assessment.
We would recommend that you provide the DWP with copies of any relevant medical evidence that supports your claim, at the earliest opportunity.
Further help
If your assessment has been postponed or if you would like to find out how these changes may affect you, our Sight Loss Advice Service can give you advice and support. Contact our helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email [email protected].