New figures from Social Security Scotland show that Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) applications are typically processed in just over three weeks, meaning pensioners who apply in November could receive an award decision before Christmas.
The latest statistics reveal that 186,390 people over 66 were receiving PADP at the end of July. The published data also indicates that new claims could be processed in as little as 17 working days, which means someone making an application in November could get their first payment before Christmas.
What is Pension Age Disability Payment?
PADP is a devolved disability benefit 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.
The statistics also show that applications made under the Special Rules for Terminal Illness are being processed within two working days, on average.
Eligibility and payment rates
You can apply for PADP 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 or more, are waiting for or do not have a diagnosis, or have a terminal illness. There is a separate fast-track application process for those who are terminally ill.
It is important to be aware that you cannot get PADP and Attendance Allowance at the same time. If you get Disability Living Allowance (DLA), you do not need to do anything, as your benefit will move to Social Security Scotland.
Social Security Scotland provides PADP at the same weekly rate as Attendance Allowance. The weekly payment rates are £76.70 for the lower rate and £114.60 for the higher rate. Payments are usually issued every four weeks, amounting to £306.80 and £458.40 per payment period.
How to apply and get support
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 living in England or Wales with a disability that means they need assistance with looking after themselves, or supervision to keep them safe, should continue to apply for Attendance Allowance through the DWP.
The Social Security Independent Advocacy Service, funded by the Scottish Government, helps disabled people understand and exercise their rights, participate fully in decisions and apply for support from Scotland's devolved social security benefits. Advice Direct Scotland is the new provider of this service through their dedicated platform advocacy.scot.
You can contact Advice Direct Scotland with any queries by calling 0808 196 8901 or emailing support@advocacy.scot. Social Security Scotland can also help you to apply for PADP, with full details available on MYGOV.SCOT.
