Hiya! Question about WCA.

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xdcon03

Hiya! Tricky one here, but I appreciate anyone’s advice

I’m a full time student above A-level and applied for UC in September 2022. Me and my mum went in and she spoke on my behalf because I can’t talk and they couldn’t confirm my eligibility due to my education. An hour after my second appointment at the job centre, my claim was closed.

I was told that because I wasn’t assessed for work capability before my course started, I’m ineligible. I’ve applied for it again as my course is ending in less than a month which I was told by ESA is allowed.

I’m being told I’m not eligible despite giving them a fit note and being in receipt of PIP. I’m being rejected before I’m even assessed. It’s so aggravating because after I have the work capability assessment I can claim while in higher education. It’s so stressful as I’ll have no money over summer. I can’t work.

I appreciate any input from anyone. Thanks so much in advance.

poppy123456

You won't be entitled to any New style ESA payments unless you've worked at some point in the previous 2 tax years.

For Universal Credit even as a disabled student if you're a single person you won't be entitled unless you're found to have LCW before the course began. Once you're no longer a student you can claim UC. You will need to make sure you report your health condition, supported by a fit note within 7 days of that and continue to send them without any gaps until a decision is made on your claim. https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/news/2021/november/new-rules-tighten-exclusion-disabled-students-universal-credit