Success: paper-based PIP review - thank you!

I have just received the decision, 6 months after the deadline to return the review form with evidence.

The letter is marked PIP.7003 and comprises 7 sheets of paper (the thickness scared me, thought it was a 2nd set for MR).

Standard DL to continue;
New Enhanced mobility, backdated to March 2022 (thought they'd reject - didn't dare tell them before I HAD to reapply);
Both awarded until September 2025 (three years from date of letter)

Brilliant! Better than I'd hoped.

There's a sting in the tail - letter concludes:

"Unfortunately, we have paid you too much money. You will get a letter from us shortly to tell you more about this and to let you know if you need to pay any money back."

Please accept a huge thank you - everyone at B&W, the volunteer forum mods, those who contribute their experiences - you've all helped me to continue fighting for my entitlement.

Thank you very much.

I hope my positive experience - sadly all too rare - will help to keep others going during their wait.

The letter said there'd be a lump sum payment on 4 October - checked bank balance today (10 October) and it's not there.

Emboldened by the award, I'll telephone them tomorrow to ask what's occurring.

Hi ivyfox,

Congratulations on your award.

I don't want to get your hopes up too much, but I once had a standard letter which stated they had paid me too much, etc etc.

Fingers x'd for you but, as I say, the last thing I want to do is raise your hopes. I'd just assume you will have to say it back and if you don't it's a bonus.

Good luck.

Regards,

Phrank.

After an hour on hold, I had a very long phone call during which I spoke to 2 different call handlers & finally a Case Manager.

He listened to me, agreed there was no reason for any mention of possible overpayment, then said he needed to confer with Payments and would call me back, if possible within the hour.

He did. Someone had apparently 'withdrawn the approval for payment of the lump sum'. The CM stated that should never have happened & that he'd 'told Payments to send the money to me today, ideally by same day transfer'.

Just checked online balance - Hurrah, it's there!

As all the success stories prior to this kept me going, I truly hope my success story will help others. Thank you all.