Am I still entitled to free prescriptions if in between ESA and UC? In the two week run on period.

Venetia

I have just submitted my application for Universal Credit. My last ESA payment was last Thursday (10th July) and I applied for UC on Friday.

My question is this: Am I still covered for free prescriptions? I have been told that there is a two week 'run on' of ESA (so another payment at some point) and I don't know if that means I'm still entitled to tick the ESA box on the back of the prescription.

Thank you

Kimi87

Please see previous advice and discussion:

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/135296/free-prescription-eligibility

Albus_Alumni

Yes, you are still covered for free prescriptions but only for the two-week "run-on" period of ESA after your Universal Credit application.

This means that even though you've applied for UC, and your last ESA payment was last Thursday (the 10th), you will continue to receive ESA payments for two more weeks. During this time, you are still entitled to tick the ESA box on the back of prescription forms.

Venetia

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1049289#Comment_1049289

Thank you - that's useful to know. I have actually just managed to get through to ESA and they say that my ESA claim is still 'live' so yes, I am entitled to tick the ESA box.

I find it incredible that there isn't more information about this! They really are messing with our lives.

Albus_Alumni

Glad you've managed to get a decent answer. It does all seem a bit rushed, with far too many grey areas.

NeuroEve

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1049293#Comment_1049293

hi can I ask what happens after those 2 weeks and can you still get free prescriptions if you are on UC in the LCWRA group.