DLA to PIP

Hi Zaffie

This is a difficult one. You are the second person to raise this issue where the age of the appointee could factor into decision-making. I think you have to do what feels right for you. Have you got someone in the background who could take over your role as an appointee and help your son in the future? If you haven't and you are familiar with the process you might want to get on and do it now while you can. However, there are other things you might want to consider.

1. DLA to PIP migrations are currently stopped (unless someone requests it) until 2028. Tempting to sit tight and not rock the boat.
2. Are you happy with the current DLA award? If your son's condition is stable you might want to just stay with what he currently receives. However, if his condition has deteriorated and you believe he would receive more on PIP then you might want to initiate a change of circumstances and fight for that.
3. Before you do anything, have a good look at the Guide to PIP Claims and Reviews. It's a might document and can appear scary, but you need to familiarise yourself with it. DLA and PIP are not the same, and some claimants have been disappointed when they have moved across. There are several parents on here with adult children with autism who will chime in and answer any questions that you have. Be aware, even though you are your son's appointee, that won't stop dirty tricks from the assessors, and you need to be prepared for that. I'm not trying to scare you, I just want you to be aware of what could happen.
4. Getting PIP nor before proposed changes come into place. The government has yet to confirm the changes. Your son hasn't received a PIP award yet, and it will be difficult to gauge how he might be scored and how the changes will affect him in the future. I can't tell you anything at this stage.

I'm sorry that I can't give you a definitive answer. You know yourself, your circumstances and your beloved son. Go with your gut instinct and do what feels right for both of you.

BIS