Hi, my name is BlondeUK25!

BlondeUK25

I have recently migrated to UC on July 3rd 2025.

I received a letter from the DWP stating that my contribution based ESA will change to NEW STYLE ESA! I wasn't even claiming contributions based ESA, I was in the support group.

I have been advised earlier that it relates to a period from 2004/2005 when I was employed. This is extremely confusing for me because I have always received ( Income Based ESA )

BlondeUK25

I honestly don't understand this at all as I worked from 2000 until 2007. Yet the DWP are using a specific one year period to stick me on NEW STYLE ESA. Despite the fact I have NEVER claimed any contributions based ESA

Kimi87

When you previously claimed ESA after working, your NI Contributions were sufficient to entitle you to CB ESA with an IR top up. So that is the award DWP gave you.

This entitlement is still active.

It's really common for people not to know what their ESA award was made up of until migration, it's one of the most common questions I myself see and answer on the forum.

Please see this thread for more information:

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/130268/ive-already-moved-to-universal-credit-but-ive-received-a-letter-from-esa

BlondeUK25

I have never been told this, nor received any correspondence stating that was how my original award was calculated.

My award is historical as I have been unable to work since my last full-time job.

I have only ever received correspondence stating my award was income based

Kimi87

The ESA letters are unfortunately notoriously difficult to understand, even for experienced advisors.

As I advised your entitlement to CB ESA dates back to your NI Contributions earned through working, this entitlement remains active and doesn't expire or run out after a certain time because you are in the Support Group.