ESA & permitted work

starling87

Hi all. Wondering if anyone can help me!

I'm on ESA in the support group. I've been offered, last minute, to mark English papers for an examining board, which takes place over a time period of 8 weeks. It would put me very close to the £167 you are able to earn each week, but I think it should stay under it. I have spoken to someone from the DWP on the phone, but while nice, they were pretty vague and understandably said they couldn't tell me what the decision would be as to whether I would be allowed to do it.
The issue is that a decision will come back once I've started the work. It's making me wonder whether I shouldn't do it because I cannot bear the thought of my claim ending and having to go through everything again.
I was wondering - if I start the work and the DWP declare I can't do it, is it enough for me to simply stop and take what I've already earned (which will be way under the allowed amount) or do I risk consequences as I've engaged in unapproved work, regardless of whether I haven't gone over hours/earnings?

Thank you if you've made it to the end!

poppy123456

I can't imagine why they would not allow you to do the permitted work and you don't have to wait until you hear from them, if they reply at all. You just need to make sure you do not earn more than £167/week and work less than 16 hours. If you earn more than this your ESA entitlement will end.

starling87

Thank you. 
I'm always so paranoid about doing something wrong. I hear such horror stories!
Do they sometimes just not reply then?

starling87

The only possible issue is that it is paid as one lump sum for the whole 8 weeks. Could that be a problem?

littleacorn

Just remember it's not just the time you spend marking that counts but time spent reading, completing forms etc. This is also hours worked so the money paid an hour is spread across all the hours. Be careful that it does not add up to more than you are allowed.

Alex_Alumni

Just to let you know @starling87 I've moved your post over into our ESA category, as this will make it easier for others to find your post, especially if they have the same question  

Hope you're doing okay, and do ask if you need anything more!