PIP1 - use of medical evidence from DLA

PIP1 form asks whether I want DWP to use medical evidence from previous DLA claim. What are the pros and cons? How difficult is it to get copies of old evidence before deciding?

Hi and Welcome to the forum, you might want to have a look at the following FAQ which explain where everything is

Welcome to Benefits and Work

The first thing you should consider is whether any DLA records are likely to reflect accurately your current limitations. This is particularly relevant if your condition is very variable and/or has changed considerably since this was submitted.

We also have several members who have been told that their DLA file is empty. This is because DWP destroy paper records after a certain period of time (this seems to vary considerably!).

I don't know of anyone who has succeded in viewing their DLA records before the PIP2 form is due to be returned.

We certainly suggest that, whether or not you give permission for your DLA files to be used, you do not rely on DWP seeking out any evidence in your favour! You should submit any and all evidence you have that will support your claim.

Don't forget to make full use of our PIP guide

PIP help for claimants

May I suggest that you bookmark/favourite this on your web browser now so that you can find it easily in future? This will allow you to return with further questions or comments about your PIP without having to start a new topic each time. It helps us enormously when everything relating to the same claim is kept in one topic - and I hope you will find it useful too