ESA but which one?

JayJay123

Hi there.

I have an award letter for ESA (27th November) and I'm in the support group, but I'm unsure as to whether I'm receiving income or contribution based ESA, as the letter doesn't state this clearly. 

The letter says I have been entitled to a transitional addition since I was moved from Incapacity benefit and I have been awarded a sum of money. The letter also states that this assessment is based on your National Insurance Contribution record. 

The next page says I have an income related amount... however because you are entitled to contribution based ESA we will pay you.... but it says the amounts of this page apply from September 2013 to November 2013. 

So now I'm confused. Can someone please help? Thanking you in advance. 
Jay

poppy123456

As you transferred from IB then you'll be on Contributions based but it's possible that you may have the income related top up on this.

JayJay123

Thank you for the information, @poppy123456.
I hope that's the case. It would be nice if they made these letters clearer! 

I hate to think I'm going to have to telephone to clarify this information, I can't sit very long waiting for someone to answer the phone and in the past I've had to wait 3/4 of an hour or more. Does anyone know how long it would take for a reply if I write and ask for this information? That might be a better idea.

Jay

JayJay123

I'm worried that this means my entitlement to Council tax and rent support will change! 

JayJay123

Well, in the end, I just had to phone them. Almost an hour to answer the phone... but I got clarification at last!  And they are sending a letter of entitlement out shortly, which will state what ESA  I'm getting and how it's made up. They said I should have had one of these, but I never received it. I just thought I would let everyone know.  As Poppy thought, it's a bit of both.