Applying the backwards test

Individuals must satisfy the backwards test to be entitled to a higher rate of PADP when their award is reviewed.

The backwards test requires the individual to have met at least one of the qualifying criteria for an award for 26 weeks immediately preceding the date that the new award would begin (PADP regs, reg. 5(6)). The qualifying criteria for awards of PADP are set out in the chapter on Eligibility, Rates and Criteria.

To apply the backwards test, the case manager needs to know the date that the entitlement to the new rate would begin. The case manager should work out the date that the award would begin, and then check to make sure that the individual satisfies the backwards test on this date. This chapter explains what to do if the backwards test is not met on this date.

If the individual meets the qualifying criteria for the lower or higher rate of PADP, they only need to have met at least one of the qualifying criteria.