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Could we claim ESA without being made to look for a job?
hi just wanted to say hi
Replies
Warmest best wishes,
Richard
@JennysDad
You might like to try the online benefits calculator here and see if it gives you some kind of answer and, in the meantime, I'm going to refer your post to our specialists so that they will be aware of the conversation and can join in when it's most helpful.
Lovely to hear from you,
Warmest best wishes,
Richard
@JennysDad
Warmest best wishes to you,
Richard
@JennysDad
Very best to you,
Richard
@JennysDad
It wouldn't have been DLA you applied for, for yourself, it would have been PIP. DLA doesn't exist anymore for those age 16 and over. PIP replaced it in 2013.
To be able to claim ESA will depend on your circumstances. Do you have a partner that works? if so and you've paid enough National Insurance contribtuions in the previous 2 tax years then you could claim Contribution based ESA. If not then you need to have a look to see if your area is a full Universal Credit area. If it is then it will be this you'll have to apply for and not ESA. To check, pop your details into this link.
http://ucpostcode.entitledto.co.uk/ucdate
If your area isn't a full Universal Credit area and you don't have a partner that works then you could claim ESA yes. For this you'll need fit notes from your GP and you won't be made to look for work.
You should never be asked to look for work on ESA, as it is a sickness benefit. You may be asked to do 'work preparation' that is considered suitable (attending meetings, drafting CVs etc) and generally this is not optional.
Another route to consider is if either you receive the daily living element of PIP, or if your adoptive daughter is in receipt of the middle or high rate care of DLA (I'm not sure she is disabled, but you mention your husband is carer for her) then you or your husband could claim Carer's Allowance and Income Support instead of ESA. There are is no conditionality attached to that.
Hope that helps!
Kind regards
Mary