Ally
As of June 2025, changes in eligibility criteria for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit have raised concerns for many individuals relying on these benefits.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) announced significant cuts to welfare programs, directly impacting disabled benefit claimants.
Despite the cuts, individuals may still be eligible for a concessionary travel scheme pass, which grants free bus travel.
In this article, we explain who qualifies for a free bus pass under the new regulations, highlighting key points to understand regarding the welfare changes.
Who Qualifies for a Free Bus Pass?
Under the revised rules, a free bus pass remains available for people who meet certain criteria, including those receiving PIP and Universal Credit.
However, eligibility has been adjusted to reflect recent changes in the welfare system. Key qualifications include:
- People on PIP: Individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions who meet specific disability-related criteria may still qualify for a bus pass even if they lose their PIP. The criteria for PIP have become more stringent, particularly for the daily living element, which now requires a score of at least four points in a single daily living activity from November 2026. This change will affect approximately 1.5 million people who currently claim the benefit.
- Universal Credit Claimants: People receiving Universal Credit may also qualify for a free bus pass. This includes individuals who are assessed as chronically sick or disabled and unable to perform daily activities without significant difficulty.
Eligibility Criteria for Free Bus Passes
The eligibility for a free bus pass is not solely dependent on receiving PIP or Universal Credit. Below are additional qualifying conditions:
| Eligibility Category | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Age Qualification | Individuals who are 66 years old (current state pension age). |
| Disability | Includes individuals with chronic conditions impairing mobility, vision, speech, or other disabilities. |
| Carers | Individuals who are carers to someone unable to travel independently. |
| Armed Forces Compensation Scheme | People qualifying under this scheme are eligible for the bus pass. |
Disabled Qualification Criteria: To qualify for the free bus pass, applicants must meet one of the following conditions:
- Chronic illness or permanent disability impairing the ability to walk.
- Visual impairment: Blindness or being partially sighted (as assessed by a consultant ophthalmologist).
- Learning disabilities: Registered as profoundly deaf with or without speech.
- Medical conditions: Unable to drive due to a medically refused or revoked driving license.
Impact of DWP Cuts on Eligibility
The ongoing cuts to PIP and Universal Credit will have profound effects on claimants. The changes to PIP eligibility, which include a stricter assessment for the daily living element, mean that some individuals who once qualified for PIP may now be excluded.
From November 2026, those seeking the daily living element of PIP will need to score at least four points in a single daily living activity, making it harder for many to receive this part of the benefit.
As a result, the number of people eligible for free bus passes might decrease, as the Office for Budget Responsibility predicts that 1.5 million current claimants will no longer meet the requirements under the new rules.
Key Changes Coming in November 2026
One of the most significant updates is that the daily living element of PIP will require a single 4-point score for eligibility starting in November 2026.
Previously, points could be accumulated across various activities. This shift will likely result in many losing their eligibility, leaving them at risk of losing their free bus pass.
In light of the DWP cuts to PIP and Universal Credit, eligibility for free bus passes remains complex but possible for many disabled individuals and carers.
It’s important to understand the updated criteria and prepare for changes coming in November 2026.
FAQs
Do I still qualify for a free bus pass if I lose my PIP due to the new rules?
Yes, you may still be eligible if you meet the disability criteria outlined for the concessionary travel scheme, such as being chronically sick or disabled. However, changes to PIP eligibility will affect some individuals’ qualifications for the free bus pass.
Can carers qualify for a free bus pass?
Yes, individuals who are carers to someone who cannot travel without help can qualify for a free bus pass, even if they are not the direct recipient of PIP or Universal Credit.
How will the new rules for PIP affect bus pass eligibility?
The tightening of PIP criteria, specifically the requirement for a single 4-point score for the daily living element, may make it harder for some individuals to qualify for the benefit. However, those still meeting the disability criteria may retain eligibility for the free bus pass.