How To Apply for the Adult Disability Payment in Scotland

Although we tend to think of the welfare system in the UK as a whole, there are significant variations from country to country. One example where we can see a clear difference is in the handling of the Adult Disability Payment. In Scotland, this benefit replaces Personal Independence Payments (PIP), commonly available in other parts of the UK. In this article, we will examine the Adult Disability Payment, the eligibility criteria, and what you need to know and do to apply.

What Is the Adult Disability Payment?

Administered by Social Security Scotland, the Adult Disability Payment is a financial aid available to those who have a medical qualifying condition, such as a terminal illness, a longer-term health disease, or a disability. This benefit is integrated into two components: daily living and mobility. Individuals may qualify for either one or both segments.

1. Daily Living Segment

You can be eligible for the Daily Living Segment if any kind of help is required with:

• Social engagement with others
• Food preparation
• Drinking and eating
• Bathing and washing
• Going to the toilet
• Disrobing and dressing
• Managing health conditions and hospital appointments
• Verbal communication
• Understanding and reading symbols, signs, and writing
• Budgeting

2. Mobility Segment

If you require help with moving around, arranging, and following a course of a journey, you could be eligible for the mobility segment.

With the Adult Disability Payment, employment status, income levels, and savings are not taken into consideration.

How much Is the Adult Disability Payment in Scotland?

Those who successfully apply for the Daily Living Segment will receive a standard rate of £68.10 or an enhanced payment of £101.75. People suffering from a terminal illness will automatically receive the enhanced payment rate.

People who successfully apply for the Mobility Segment will receive a standard rate of £26.90 or an enhanced payment of £71.00. 

Who Is Eligible To Apply for the Adult Disability Payment?

Applicants are required to be aged between six-teen and State Pension age. Anyone in this age group with a longer-term mental or physical health condition, disability, or terminal illness can apply for the benefit. 

There is no need to apply for the Adult Disability Payment if you already receive the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

You can learn more through this Scottish government website. 

How To Apply for the Adult Disability Payment

You can apply for the Adult Disability Payment over the phone for part 1 (and on paper for part 2), or simply online. 

For an online application, you need an account with “myaccount.” You can create an account or log in (if you already have one) through this link. 

For phone and paper applications, telephone Social Security Scotland on 0800 1822222. They will complete the first part of the application over the telephone and will post part 2 to be completed through a paper form. 

There are 2 parts that need to be completed in the application process:

Applying for Part 1 

Part 1 is the personal details section. You must provide information such as your full name, address, date of birth, National Insurance Number, and bank details. If you choose to do the application online, you must complete this section within 14 days of starting the application. 

Applying for Part 2

Part 2 of the application will ask questions regarding:

• Your medical condition or disability and the limitations imposed 
• The support and help required and the reasons why such assistance is necessary
• The level of difficulty encountered when you need to move in an outdoor setting
• The medications, treatments, or equipment required

You can find a sample application form here for reference. 

Part 2 will also require the submission of supporting evidence for the claim. Examples of supporting evidence include:

• Medical certificates, letters, or reports
• Prescription list showing the medication currently taken
• Test results
• Assessments from social care

It is best to provide as much supporting evidence as possible. However, Social Security Scotland can also obtain information on behalf of the applicant (if requested).

Part 2 of the application must be completed within 56 days after finishing part 1.

Receiving Help With The Application

Social Security Scotland is also able to assist. They could find an independent advocate for those with mental health problems or disability or a person-to-person worker through the Local Delivery Service. Find out more through this link.

What Happens After You Apply for the Adult Disability Payment

After the application, Social Security Scotland may contact you to obtain more details or if help was requested in finding supporting information. They may even invite the applicant to participate in consultations.

Receiving a Decision

Social Security Scotland will send a letter to the applicant informing them of the outcome; it is known as a notice of determination. Decisions are made within 7 days for those with terminal conditions. For others, the notice of determination will take longer. 

If the outcome is successful, the letter will state which segments of the benefit will be paid (daily living part, mobility part, or both) and how much is to be paid for each part. The letter will also give reasons if the claim is not successful.

Unsuccessful Claims

The letter will provide a clear explanation of how the outcome was reached. If the applicant is unhappy with the decision, they can challenge it. 

Receiving Payments 

For all successful claims, payments begin when the first part of the application is completed. For online applications, it is when the first part is submitted. At the same time, for telephone and paper applications, it occurs when the initial contact was made with Social Security Scotland. Payments are made every 4 weeks using the banking details supplied at the time of the application. 

Obtaining the Best Help Possible

Scotland is one of the best places in the world for offering support to its citizens. With that in mind, the Scottish government greatly assists people with disabilities or health concerns. Thanks to funds such as the Adult Disability Payment, Scotland’s disabled residents can lead a highly respectful life.