Pension Age Disability Payment rolls out across Scotland
A new devolved social security payment will replace all new claims for Attendance Allowance in Scotland from this week.
Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) will be a vital means of support for older people who have a disability or long-term health condition that means they need help looking after themselves or supervision to stay safe.
If you currently claim Attendance Allowance, the amount you get will stay the same and you will have been transferred automatically onto PADP, there will be no gaps in payments and you don't need to take any action.
Pension Age Disability Payment is paid at one of two rates:
- a lower rate if you need care, help or supervision during the day or during the night
- a higher rate if you need care, help or supervision during the day and during the night
You do not have to be getting help from a carer to qualify, as your eligibility will be based on the help you need, not the help you actually receive. You don’t have to spend the money on paying for care, and you won’t be asked about how you spend the money, or to provide any evidence.
This support is tax free and non means-tested, so it doesn’t matter how much you have in savings, income or capital.
Being awarded PADP can increase your entitlement in other means-tested social security payments you receive or give you an entitlement you didn’t have before, so have a benefit check if you start receiving one of these benefits.
Click here to watch our guide to Pension Age Disability Payment video
Unsure about your eligibility or looking for support with a new application?
With rising bills and cost of living stretching many beyond their means, it’s vital to make sure you are not missing out on any financial support.
- Get in touch with the free Age Scotland helpline on 0800 12 44 222.
- Use our online benefits calculator at www.age.scot/benefitscalculator.
- Book a place on one of our new workshops, designed to help anyone who intends to complete a Pension Age Disability form for themselves or someone else: www.age.scot/benefitsworkshop.
- Click here to access our free information guide on PADP.
