Deadline for PIP

I would appreciate some advice. I am being moved from DLA to PIP. The initial claim via phone was meant to be started today. This was physically not possible. Is it correct that my DLA (which stops at the end of April) will be suspended for 4 weeks and then stopped if I do not start the new claim, within this time?

Secondly, if it is not possible to complete the main form within the specified time, would I then have to start a new claim for PIP at a later date? My health has deteriorated to such an extent that despite your excellent guides, I am not confident of completing it within time. Would this create any further complications, or would it be a case of starting n new claim for PIP?

Apologies if this has been asked before. Thank you.

Thank you, Gordon. Yes, have had the reminder letter. The initial claim was meant to start yesterday. There seems to have been a crossover and the latest DLA payment was received yesterday. Would it be best to notify the DWP that I am not able to start a claim at this time
(if not started within the further 4 weeks) rather than to have the claim automatically closed?Health aside, I also need time to gather medical evidence.

Is it correct to say that if you do not start a claim by the date you are invited to do so, that you are not penalized for this in any way, when you do start the claim.

Not ideal to delay starting the claim for PIP but I see no way around it

Many thanks for the clarification. It may be a plan to start the claim, rather than to have my DLA closed as a result. If it's then not possible even with an extension, I could always start a new claim for PIP at a later date.