Free support to apply for benefits

Several third-party organisations are asking for a fee to help people apply for disability benefits on their behalf.

We would urge people not to use these companies as we offer free assistance to support people making applications for benefits. It’s important that people get every penny of the money they are entitled to so they can use it to pay for things they need.

Our Client Advisers are based in communities across Scotland and can help with applications in local areas, talk to people by phone or visit them at home if needed.

We can also collect information from doctors and other people who know how a person's condition impacts them to support their application.

Additionally, the Scottish Government funds VoiceAbility to deliver a free, independent advocacy service to support disabled people to apply for our payments.

Other organisations that offer free advice include:

• Money Talk Team: offer free money and debt advice

• Local Authorities: councils have welfare rights advisers to give advice and support

• Citizens Advice Scotland: give information on benefits and other issues

• Macmillan Cancer Support: Macmillan advisers offer advice for people affected by cancer

Find out more about free support at mygov.scot/benefits-support