Renewal v review - what’s the difference

Hi Lorraine

Potentially there is no difference.

A renewal takes place when a claim period is due to expire; this might be anything from a year before the end. (The idea being that it may take a while for you to complete the form, be assessed and get a decision all done, so you need enough time allowed.)
A review can be conducted at any time, during an award. Occasionally DWP decide to review a case, either on a whim, or because the previous devision was say a 3 Yr award to be reviewed after 2 yrs. Obviously if you report a change in circumstances this could instigate a review, or if DWP suspect fraud.
That said, the effect is likely to be the same, ie fill out a form, sending in all your evidence, have assessment, unless you are lucky enough not to need one, and await the decision!

So your claim is up for renewal - but what you will be sent is the 'Review form" - which is exactly the same form they would send if they decided to 'review' someone's case. You will be sent an AR1 Review form, which was changed in November 2024. You can read about it in the Guide to PIP claims and reviews - P130. Here is a copy of the form assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6...ment_Review_Form.pdf

If you have not heard from the DWP by the end of June - you should contact them to find out what is happening. You should receive an extension letter if they can't get through the process before the end of September - but don't assume this has been done if you haven't had it in writing.

BIS