Social security benefits

You can apply for social security benefits if you are too ill to work, or if you are disabled. 

The benefits system is complicated and changes often. Citizen’s Advice Scotland provides a comprehensive guide to benefits, tax credits and funds. We strongly recommend that you ask a welfare advisor for help with your benefits application.  

The three main benefits that you may be entitled to are: 

Adult Disability Payment

Adult Disability Payment (ADP) has replaced Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in Scotland. It is paid to disabled people who may face additional financial costs because of their disability. You do not have to be out of work to get ADP. 

You can find more information on applying for ADP here. 

Universal Credit

If you are unable to work because of your mental health problem, you may be eligible for Universal Credit (UC). 

You will need to undertake a Work Capability Assessment. If your application for UC is accepted, you will be put into one of two groups. The Limited Capability for Work (LCW) Group is for people who are unable to work at the moment but are expected to be able to work in the future. The Limited Capacity for Work and Work Related Activity (LCWRA) Group is for people who are not expected to be able to work in the near future. 

You can apply for UC online and find out more about applications, appeals and sanctions at Citizen’s Advice Scotland. 

Carer Support Payment

Carer Support Payment has replaced Carer’s Allowance in Scotland. If you spend at least 35 hours a week caring for a disabled person, you might be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. 

You can find out more on applying for Carer Support Payment here. More information is available at Citizen’s Advice Scotland.