ESA first payment

KRS17
KRS17 Community Member Posts: 17 Listener
in Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
Hello. How long does it take to get your first ESA payment. I applied a few weeks ago and had an interview with a job coach today but she couldn't say how long it will take. Thanks.

Comments

  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Community Member Posts: 64,456 Championing
    Usually it can take 3- 4 weeks, sometimes longer. You won't receive anything for the first 7 days because they are called "waiting days."

    Once a decision is made you will be contacted. If there's any entitlement then usually you'll receive your first payment before the letter.

    Have you also used a benefits calculator to check entitlement to Universal Credit? If you live with a partner you'll need to claim as a couple. If you have savings/capital of more than £16,000 you're excluded from claiming.

    If you claim UC then the ESA will be deducted in full. https://www.entitledto.co.uk/benefits-calculator

  • Jimm_Alumni
    Jimm_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 5,713 Championing
    Hey @KRS17, as Poppy mentions it can take sometime.

    How do you feel the appointment went?

    If you want to read up more about ESA we have a section dedicated to it here ESA | Disability charity Scope UK

    Keep us updated :)
  • KRS17
    KRS17 Community Member Posts: 17 Listener
    Thanks for the replies. The appointment was OK and they seemed supportive so hopefully will get the payments soon.

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