New claims for Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) in Scotland are being processed in as little as nine working days, according to the latest figures from Social Security Scotland. This means someone applying now could receive a decision before the end of August.
Current recipients and payment rates
As of the end of April, 185,895 people over the age of 66 were receiving PADP. The benefit is available to those living in Scotland who have reached State Pension age and need help due to a disability, long-term health condition, or terminal illness. It is not means-tested, so savings and income do not affect eligibility.
Successful claimants can receive either £306.80 or £458.40 every four weeks, depending on the level of care needed. This money is intended to help with the extra costs of living independently and staying safe at home.
Fast-track for terminal illness
Applications made under the Special Rules for Terminal Illness are being processed within two working days on average.
To apply for PADP, you must have reached State Pension age and have had care needs during the day or night for at least six months due to a disability or health condition. You can still apply if you have not had care needs for six months yet—your award will begin six months from when your care needs started if your application is successful—or if you are waiting for a diagnosis. There is also a separate fast-track process for those with a terminal illness.
Important notes
You cannot get PADP and Attendance Allowance at the same time. If you currently receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA), you do not need to do anything, as your benefit will automatically move to Social Security Scotland.
PADP is paid at the same weekly rate as Attendance Allowance: £76.70 for the lower rate and £114.60 for the higher rate. Payments are usually made every four weeks, totaling £306.80 and £458.40 respectively.
How to apply
Full details on how to claim online, by phone, post, or in person are available on mygov.scot. For those in England or Wales, Attendance Allowance applications should continue to be made through the DWP.
Independent advocacy support is available through the Social Security Independent Advocacy Service, funded by the Scottish Government. Advice Direct Scotland provides this service via advocacy.scot, and can be contacted at 0808 196 8901 or support@advocacy.scot.
