According to recent figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), there are now more than 3.5 million people in Great Britain receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP). This includes about 173,000 claimants in Scotland, while they switch to Adult Disability Payment (ADP).
In April, data shows around 2,305 individuals living in other countries also get this help. It's important to note that people abroad only get the daily living part.
It is £72.65 (basic) or £108.55 (extra) each week — so, £290.60 or £434.20 every four weeks. People who work or live in another country might still get this help if they meet certain rules on GOV.UK.
Breakdown of PIP Claims Abroad
The following shows the number of people getting up to £434.20 a month for various health issues:
- General bone and muscle problems: 583
- Nerve issues: 453
- Regional bone and muscle issues: 416
- Mental health problems: 414
- Cancer: 93
- Breathing issues: 71
- Heart problems: 57
- Eye problems: 54
- Connective tissue issues: 40
- Hearing problems: 30
- Gland issues: 28
- Skin problems: 17
- Stomach issues: 16
- Infections: 14
- Urinary issues: 10
- Metabolic issues: 6
- Liver, gallbladder, and bile duct issues: 6
Getting Benefits When Abroad Temporarily
You can get some benefits if you are overseas for up to 13 weeks, or 26 weeks if getting care. These benefits include:
- PIP
- Adult Disability Payment (ADP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults
Permanently Moving to EEA Countries or Switzerland
You or your family might be able to get help if you:
- Work in the UK or pay National Insurance in the UK due to work
- Have paid enough National Insurance to get contribution-based benefits
- Get State Pension, Industrial Injuries Benefit, contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), or bereavement benefits
- Are covered by the Withdrawal Agreement
Eligible Applicants might get:
- PIP - only the daily living part
- ADP - only the daily living part
- DLA for adults - only the care part
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
If you now get PIP or DLA for adults and want to move to ADP, get in touch with the Disability Service Centre. If you get ADP and want to switch to PIP, contact Social Security Scotland. Social Security Scotland can also help if you are not sure about your tie to Scotland.