Click to edit SEO parameters

We use cookies to collect anonymous data to help us improve your site browsing experience.

Click 'Accept all cookies' to agree to all cookies that collect anonymous data. To only allow the cookies that make the site work, click 'Use essential cookies only.' Visit 'Set cookie preferences' to control specific cookies.

Set cookie preferences

Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Publication - Publication

Pension Age Disability Payment decision making guide

Published
7 Aug 2025
Topic
Pension Age Disability Payment
Case transfer

The PADP determination

The PADP determination is based on (PADP regs, Sch 1, Part 3, para 9(3)):

  • the information Social Security Scotland receives from DWP regarding the person’s Attendance Allowance award
  • any other relevant information available to Social Security Scotland at the time of the determination.

A case manager will not typically review the Attendance Allowance information before a determination is made. This is an automatic process.

In most cases, a person will receive the same rate of PADP as they received in their Attendance Allowance immediately before transfer (PADP regs, Sch 1, Part 3, Para 9(4)). There is an exception if an award is transferred because it appears that the person may meet the Scottish definition of Special Rules for Terminal Illness. (See Special Rules for Terminal Illness section).

Example: PADP entitlement equals Attendance Allowance entitlement

Francis is 72 years old. He receives the lower rate of Attendance Allowance. His case is chosen for transfer. He is entitled to the lower rate of PADP.

The PADP determination must not be made later than the period set out in the notice (PADP regs, Sch 1, Part 3, Para 9(5)(c)). The only exception to this rule is where all of the following are met. Social Security Scotland must have:

  • good reason for extending the time frame
  • agreed the length of the extension with DWP
  • notified the person that this time frame has been extended and their reasons for doing so.

Example: Extension of the period set out in the notice

Ina is 87 years old and her case is chosen for transfer. The DWP sends the relevant Attendance Allowance information to Social Security Scotland. However, there are inconsistencies with the information Social Security Scotland received that they need to clarify with Ina before making the PADP determination. Social Security Scotland:

  • believes the questions will not be answered within the period specified
  • agrees with DWP an extended time period so the questions can be resolved
  • writes to Ina explaining the issue, that the time frame will be extended, and letting them know when they can expect the process to finish.
Back to top