Applying for Adult Disability Payment (ADP) or other devolved disability benefits in Scotland can be a lengthy process, but including the right supporting information may help speed up your application. This essential guidance covers everything you need to know to get a faster decision on your new claim.
Key Supporting Information to Include
When making a new claim for Child Disability Payment, Adult Disability Payment, or Pension Age Disability Payment, providing just one piece of supporting information can accelerate the process. Useful documents include:
- Care plans
- Prescription lists
- A child’s additional support needs plan
- Letters from a local authority outlining housing adaptations
- Letters or a report from HR explaining workplace adjustments
- Letters from teachers explaining what support the child needs at school
- Referral letters to specialists (e.g., CAMHS)
Current Processing Times
The average time to process a new claim for ADP is around 57 working days, just over 11 weeks. However, applications can take longer or shorter depending on the information provided and the complexity of the case. People making a new claim this month could have an award decision before the end of August.
Part Two of the Application Form
The second part of the ADP application form asks about:
- Your condition and how it affects your ability to look after yourself, understand information, and communicate with other people
- What help and support you need and why
- How you move around outdoors
- Any medication, treatment, or equipment you need
Official guidance on mygov.scot explains other information which could help support your answers in part two includes:
- Information about your condition or your symptoms, if you're still waiting for a diagnosis
- Information about any medical tests you have had, and the results if you have them
- Contact details for your GP
- Contact details for anyone else who could give more information about your condition, such as a family member or someone who looks after you
How to Upload Supporting Documents Online
For help submitting supporting documents online, contact Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222. There is also an upload page on mygov.scot with all the details and document formats you need to know.
About Devolved Disability Benefits
Social Security Scotland administers and delivers all devolved disability benefits, which provide additional financial support to people with a disability, long-term illness, or physical or mental health condition. These benefits have replaced all new claims for three DWP benefits: Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance for Children, and Attendance Allowance.
Adult Disability Payment Amounts
ADP is made up of two parts: daily living and mobility. You might qualify for one or both parts. Weekly rates are:
- Daily living: Standard rate £76.70, Enhanced rate £114.60
- Mobility: Standard rate £30.30, Enhanced rate £80.00
Child Disability Payment Amounts
Child Disability Payment supports extra costs for a disabled child under 16. Weekly care rates: Lowest £30.30, Middle £76.70, Highest £114.60. Mobility rates: Lower £30.30, Higher £80.00.
Pension Age Disability Payment Amounts
This benefit is for those who have reached State Pension age and have care needs. Weekly rates: Lower rate £76.70, Higher rate £114.60. There is no mobility component.
Tips for New Claimants
Apply the Way That Suits You Best
Applications can be made online, by post, by phone, or in-person through advisors based in local communities. A dedicated fast-track route is available for terminally ill people.
Provide as Much Detail as Possible
Qualification is based on the impact of your condition on daily needs. Social Security Scotland advises: "It's vital that everyone applying for support explains in detail how their disability or condition affects their life." The application can be completed in stages.
Be Open About Your Condition
Many people find it difficult to focus on challenges, but being open helps ensure you receive the correct award.
Provide Supporting Information
Social Security Scotland needs supporting information from a professional before making a decision. Sharing documents like care plans, medical reports, and prescription lists can speed up the process. If you don't have any, they can collect it on your behalf.
Get Help to Apply
Free help is available by phone on 0800 182 2222 or via webchat. In-person help is available from local advisors. Independent advocacy is available from Advocacy.scot (0808 196 8901). Organisations like Citizens Advice Scotland and Macmillan Cancer Support can also assist.
