Lost my esa due to getting inheritance money

nadekrkr

I got 30k in inheritance and lost my esa benefits, I have a disability which means I won’t ever be able to work. I’ve heard this money has to last me 5 years, is that true? Or would I be able to apply for esa again when I get to 16k. Or do they automatically give it back when you’re back to under 16k?

thanks 

poppy123456

There’s no definite amount of time you have to wait before reclaiming means tested benefits. 

What they may ask for is bank statements to see where the money was spent. If you bought the most expensive things in order to reduce your savings to reclaim benefits then yes they may ask questions. It will be down to a decision maker to make the final decision.

As your ESA stopped completely then you will not be able to reclaim it because new claims for Income Related ESA are no longer possible. 

The only ESA possible is New style ESA and you will need to have worked at some point in the last 2 tax years. 

You will need to claim Universal Credit. Once your money goes below £16,000 then you can claim. There will be a deduction of £4.35/month for every £250 or part thereof over £6,000. 

If you need to claim for council tax reduction then you will need to check your local Authority because some have a maximum savings limit of £6,000 and there will be no entitlement.