The Department for Work and Pensions has introduced a significant rule change affecting claimants of Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, and Carer's Allowance who permanently move from England or Wales to Scotland. Under the new rules, individuals must now submit fresh applications to Social Security Scotland for equivalent Scottish benefits, rather than having their claims automatically transferred as was previously the case.
This change, announced on 19 July 2026, applies to all DWP disability benefits, including Disability Living Allowance for Children. Claimants are strongly urged to apply for replacement Scottish benefits as soon as possible after moving to avoid disruptions in their payments.
13-Week Grace Period
The DWP will continue to pay existing benefits for 13 weeks after someone moves to Scotland, providing a buffer period. However, if claimants do not apply to Social Security Scotland within that time, their payments may cease. Successful applicants may have their Scottish payments backdated to when their DWP benefit ended, ensuring no loss of entitlement.
Karyn Dunning, deputy director of Social Security Scotland, emphasized the importance of taking action: "It's vital disabled people and carers who move to Scotland take action to ensure they continue to get the financial support they are entitled to."
How to Apply
Claimants can find more information on the Scottish Government website at mygov.scot or by calling Social Security Scotland directly on 0800 182 2222. The application process requires claimants to provide details of their current DWP benefit and proof of residence in Scotland.
The rule change aims to streamline the transition to Scotland's devolved social security system, which includes benefits such as Adult Disability Payment, Child Disability Payment, and Carer's Allowance Supplement. However, it places the onus on claimants to initiate the process, potentially leading to payment gaps for those unaware of the new requirements.
