If I apply for new style ESA, can I be paid that alongside UC or will I lose my UC?

ginna15

Hi everyone,
Ive been looking into the possibility of applying for new style ESA. I’m currently on UC and have just been awarded standard rate PIP for daily living. My question is if I apply for new style ESA can I be paid that alongside UC or will I lose my UC as it doesn’t seem to be clear from anything I’ve read about it? It’s just I don’t want to apply and then find myself worse off because I’ve lost my UC. Finding my way around the benefits system is a nightmare ?

janer1967

Hi and welcome to the community 

You can only get new style esa if you have paid enough ni contributions in the previous 2 tax years through work 
.you can get both but the esa will be deducted from your uc 

Have you reported a medical condition on uc and had a work capability assessment if you get awarded lcwra there would be additional payment 

ginna15

Hi janer1967, thanks for your reply. 

I had a work capability assessment just over 2 years ago and haven’t had another one since! I was found to have lcw. I attempted to work in a self employed capacity, but not enough to pay tax and was still on full UC reporting income which was only about £30/month. I gave up in February last year and have been handing in fit notes every 3 months since then. UC was made aware of my health issues when I first signed on and attempted self employment.

janer1967

OK 

In that case I doubt you will be eligible for new style esa due to not paying ni 

They will reassess wca at sometime but that could be years away 
.if you think your condition has got worse and you would get lcwra you can report a change in circumstances to prompt reassessment 

ginna15

Sorry what is lcwra please?

janer1967

Limited capability for work and work related activity 

It pays an additional amount of uc £343.63 per month 

ginna15

Ah right now I understand. Thank you ?

janer1967

Your welcome