New claims for Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) in Scotland could receive an award decision before the end of October, as latest figures show applications are typically processed in just over three weeks.
Data from Social Security Scotland shows 186,390 people over 66 were receiving the payment at the end of July. The published statistics indicate new claims could be processed in as little as 17 working days, meaning someone applying over the coming weeks could get a decision before the end of October.
What is Pension Age Disability Payment?
The devolved disability benefit is available to people living in Scotland who have reached State Pension age and need help because of a disability, long-term health condition or terminal illness. Savings and income do not affect eligibility as the benefit is not means-tested.
Successful claimants could receive either £306.80 or £458.40 every four weeks, depending on the level of care they need. The money is intended to help with the extra costs of living independently and staying safe at home.
Eligibility and application details
You can apply if you have reached State Pension age and have had care needs during the day or night for 6 months or more because of a disability or health condition. You can still apply if you have not had care needs for 6 months — your award will begin 6 months from when your care needs started if successful — or if you are waiting for, or do not have, a diagnosis.
There is a separate fast-track application process for those with a terminal illness. Applications made under the Special Rules for Terminal Illness are being processed within two working days, on average. You cannot get Pension Age Disability Payment and Attendance Allowance at the same time. If you get Disability Living Allowance (DLA), you do not need to do anything — your benefit will move to Social Security Scotland.
Payment rates and support
Social Security Scotland provides PADP at the same weekly rate as Attendance Allowance. The weekly rates are £76.70 for the lower rate and £114.60 for the higher rate, which amounts to £306.80 and £458.40 every four-week payment period.
Full details on how to make a claim online, by phone, post or in person can be found on MYGOV.SCOT. Anyone over State Pension age in England or Wales with a disability should continue to apply for Attendance Allowance through the DWP.
The Social Security Independent Advocacy Service, funded by the Scottish Government, is provided by Advice Direct Scotland through their dedicated platform advocacy.scot. You can contact them by calling 0808 196 8901 or emailing support@advocacy.scot. Social Security Scotland can also help you apply for PADP.
