Applying for new style esa

Rheumgirl59

I have just been awarded pip. I was advised to see if I would also be eligible for new style esa. I have to go to an appointment at the job centre on Tuesday. What will that be about? As I already get pip will I have to have another medical assessment? 

poppy123456

To be entitled to payments for New style ESA you will need to have paid the correct amount of NI contributions in tax years 2020/21 and 2021/22. Have you worked at all in those tax years? If you're currently employed and claiming SSP for your employer you can't be paid the ESA at the same time.

The appointment will a new claim appointment, which will include agreeing to your claimant commiments.

Yes you will need another assessment because claiming PIP makes no difference to an ESA claim.

Have you checked entitlement to Universal Credit? It's a means tested benefit so if you live with a partner you claim as a couple and entitlement will depend on your joint circumstances. If you have savings/capital of more than £16,000 you're excluded from claiming. Use a benefits calculator. https://www.entitledto.co.uk/benefits-calculator/Intro/Home?cid=a82f2242-a84e-4588-81c0-75b6f5a7660d

If you claim both of those together the ESA is deducted in full from any UC entitlement.

Rheumgirl59

Thank you, I don't qualify for universal credit because of savings. I do 2 hours a month work for one job but gave up my other job in March 21 because I couldn't cope any more. I believe I have enough ni credit but guess they will check that for me. I was only really applying to see if I might be eligible so was surprised to be called for an interview as the first bit before any other checks. Gp has given me a certificate to say reduced activities only. Thank you for your help. 

poppy123456

The appointment is a standard appointment that everyone needs to attend when they claim New style ESA. It's no indication that you're entitled to receive any payments. Once a decision has been made on the new claim you will be sent the decision letter and in that it will tell you whether you're entitled to the payments.

If you're not entitled to them then you can recieve NI credits if you're found to have limited capability for work. There's information here regarding the work capability assessment. https://chdauk.co.uk/your-assessment/types-of-assessments/employment-and-support-allowance-esa/

Once your savings go below £16,000 you can check entitlement to Universal Credit. There will be a deduction of £4.35/month for every £250 or part there of over £6,000.

Rheumgirl59

Thank you for your help 

L_Volunteer

I just want to add a warm welcome @Rheumgirl59. It is great to see you have joined us.

Please don't hesitate to let us know if there's anything else we can do to support you. We are all here for you and listening to you 

Rheumgirl59

Thank you that is very kind of you