Adult Disability Payment

What is Adult Disability Payment?

Adult Disability Payment is a new benefit paid by Social Security Scotland. It is to help with the extra cost of living for people who are working age with a disability or health condition. Adult Disability Payment is not means-tested, so you will not need a financial assessment to claim. It is not taxable and will not reduce any other benefits you receive.

Who is Adult Disability Payment for?

Adult Disability Payment is replacing Personal Independence Payment for people who:

• live in Scotland
• are over 16 and under State Pension age, which is currently 66
• have difficulty or need help with daily living activities or getting around because of a health condition or disability
• have had the difficulties for at least 3 months, and expect them to continue for at least another 9 months
• have been present in Great Britain for at least 26 of the last 52 weeks

The assessment critera are very similar to the Personal Independence Payment elgibility criteria. There are some minor differences, in the descriptions of difficulties with daily tasks and in residency requirements, for example. These changes were made in consultation with people experienced in using the benefits system, to improve the application process.

You should only apply for Adult Disability Paymentif you are making a new claim for a disability benefit. If you are already receiving Personal Independence Payment, you will be contacted about your benefit being switched.

It is not necessary to have a diagnosis to claim Adult Disability Payment. The benefit can be claimed for physical and mental health conditions, and problems with thinking or memory. You can claim whether you are employed, self-employed or not currently working. 

How to apply for Adult Disability Payment

You will need to contact Social Security Scotland to apply for Adult Disability Payment. You can apply online or by phone and paper. More information about the application process and who can apply is provided in the Age Scotland Adult Disability Payment guide.  

Benefit Workshops

The benefits system is complicated. It can be difficult to work out what you are entitled to, and how to claim it. Find out more about joining one of our Benefit Workshops here.