New style ESA PiP and UC

lukepat

Hi,
so I applied for new style ESA at the beginning of February. I was told by a work coach I need to also apply for UC this is because I’m on the higher rate of both parts of PIP.. Uc have confirmed this but I thought the premiums had stopped? I’ve applied for UC but we just wondering if I was waisting my time applying! 

calcotti

Sounds like the work coach doesn't understand benefits! (To be fair, it isn't their role to do so.)
Your PIP entitlement makes no difference to your UC entitlement.
If you claim ns-ESA and UC the ESA will be deducted from the UC but if you are single and you have no other income once you are in the Support Group the UC will pay a top up to your ESA because the UC is worth more.
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Were you claiming any benefits other than PIP prior to claiming the ns-ESA?

poppy123456

UC is a means tested benefit so whether you qualify will depend on your circumstances. If you live with a partner you claim as a couple and your joint circumstances will be taken into consideration.

There's no financial gain to claiming UC and New style ESA together because the ESA is deducted in full from any UC entitlement. You are correct, there's no disability premiums payable when claim either the ESA or UC.

If you're placed into the Support Group for ESA then you'll also be entitled to the LCWRA element of UC.

lukepat

No used to claim esa years ago! Sorry for all the questions didn’t make sense to me either I’m honest!