Kuni Lingston
As of 2025, thousands of older adults in the UK are missing out on a life-changing financial boost worth up to £1,670.80 per month.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging people over State Pension age to check if they qualify for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) in Scotland.
Many older individuals are unaware that these benefits could top up their income significantly, especially when combined with the State Pension.
Here’s everything you need to know about claiming PIP or ADP, including who qualifies, how much you could get, and how to apply.
What Is PIP and ADP?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a non-means-tested benefit offered to people with long-term health conditions or disabilities that impact their daily living or mobility. In Scotland, new claims are made through the Adult Disability Payment (ADP) system, which is gradually replacing PIP.
These benefits are designed to help with extra costs of living with a disability or illness. You can receive them even if you’re working, have savings, or already receive other benefits.
How Much Could You Receive?
If you qualify for the highest rates of both the daily living and mobility components, and also receive the full State Pension, your total monthly support could reach £1,670.80.
Breakdown of Potential Monthly Support
| Benefit Type | Weekly Rate | 4-Week Payment |
|---|---|---|
| PIP Daily Living (Enhanced) | £110.40 | £441.60 |
| PIP Mobility (Enhanced) | £77.05 | £308.20 |
| State Pension (Full, New) | £230.25 | £921.00 |
| Total | — | £1,670.80 |
Even if you receive less than the full rates, the additional support can significantly increase your monthly income.
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible for PIP or ADP, you must:
- Be under State Pension age at the time of your first claim
- Have had difficulty with daily living or mobility for at least 3 months
- Expect these difficulties to last at least 9 more months
- Have lived in the UK for at least 2 of the past 3 years
People over State Pension age can continue receiving PIP or ADP if already awarded before reaching that age, or reclaim it within 12 months of a previous claim ending.
Common Conditions That Qualify
PIP and ADP are based on how your condition affects your life, not the diagnosis itself. You may qualify if your condition impacts:
- Preparing or eating food
- Washing or dressing
- Using the toilet
- Managing medication
- Communicating with others
- Moving around safely
You’ll need to provide evidence of how your daily life is affected and may undergo a health assessment.
How the Assessment Works
For PIP:
- Most assessments are now conducted via telephone or video call
- Some people may be offered a face-to-face appointment
- You’ll be assessed by an independent health professional
For ADP (Scotland):
- No face-to-face assessments unless you specifically request one
- Assessments are less intrusive and designed to reduce stress for claimants
The assessment determines how much financial support you’ll get based on your ability to carry out everyday tasks safely and independently.
How to Apply
To apply for PIP in England or Wales:
- Call the DWP new claims line
- Provide:
- Your contact and bank details
- National Insurance number
- Details of your GP or healthcare provider
- Fill in the “How your disability affects you” form
- Submit medical evidence if available
In Scotland, apply through Social Security Scotland for ADP.
PIP and Older Adults
As of April 2025, the DWP reports:
| Age Group | Number of PIP Claimants |
|---|---|
| 65–69 | 424,614 |
| 70–74 | 219,089 |
| 75–79 | 69,013 |
| Total | 709,710 |
A significant number of older adults are already benefiting—but many more could be missing out due to lack of awareness.
State Pension and PIP Combined
- New State Pension: £230.25/week
- Basic State Pension: Up to £176.45/week
State Pension and PIP are paid separately, but can be received together, creating a powerful monthly income boost. This is especially important for those with limited savings or high care needs.
With the cost of living rising, it’s more important than ever for older adults to explore all sources of financial support. If you have a long-term health condition, you may be eligible for PIP or ADP, which could bring in up to £1,670.80 per month when combined with the State Pension.
Don’t miss out—check your eligibility, gather your documents, and start your application today. Even if you’re not sure, it’s worth applying—many people underestimate how much help they actually need.
FAQs
Can I apply for PIP after State Pension age?
No, but if you already received PIP before reaching pension age, you can continue getting it. You may also be able to reclaim it within 12 months of a previous award ending.
What’s the difference between PIP and Attendance Allowance?
PIP is for people under State Pension age (at the time of application), while Attendance Allowance is for those over pension age with similar needs.
How long does a PIP award last?
PIP awards vary. Some are short-term (2 years or less); others are ongoing, especially if your condition is unlikely to improve.