PIP appeal statistics — the official numbers
Every figure below is quoted from official publications with its exact definition, because three different "success rates" get confused. Checked at source 2026-10-09.
DWP stage (MRs and appeals)
Source: DWP, Personal Independence Payment statistics to July 2026 (official statistics).
| Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| New claims receiving an award (normal rules, excl. withdrawn), Aug 2021–Jul 2026 | 42% |
| Special Rules for End of Life claims receiving an award | 99% |
| MRs cleared (excl. withdrawn) that led to a change in award | 27% |
| Completed MRs against initial decisions that went on to lodge an appeal (Apr 2021–Mar 2026) | 35% |
| Appeals where DWP changed the decision in the claimant's favour before hearing ("lapsed") | 17% |
| Initial decisions overturned in the claimant's favour at a tribunal hearing | 3% |
| MRs registered in the quarter ending July 2026 | 86,000 |
The tribunal stage (HMCTS)
| Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| PIP appeals decided at hearing that were overturned in the claimant's favour, Apr–Jun 2026 | 67% |
This is the tribunal overturn rate for appeals that reached a hearing — a different measure from the DWP '3% of initial decisions' figure, which counts every initial decision including ones never appealed. Source: HMCTS Tribunal statistics quarterly (Dec 2025 edition, SEC chapter), via gov.uk.
How to read these numbers
The 67% tribunal figure counts only appeals that reached a hearing — a self-selected group with the strongest evidence. The 3% figure counts every initial decision ever made, including the vast majority that were never challenged. Neither is a prediction for your case; both say the same practical thing: people who complete the MR and keep appealing win often.
The definitions are unpacked in tribunal success rates — the real numbers.
Independent information directory · Source-checked 2026-10-09 · Independent information — not legal or benefits advice; not affiliated with the DWP.