ESA waiting times

Broreb1981
Broreb1981 Online Community Member Posts: 190 Contributor
in Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
My SSP is running out soon and I will be claiming new style ESA. I'm hearing all sorts but can't find a definite answer. How long are people currently waiting to be assessed? I'm getting really worried that it could be over a year then the money would be stopped. I can't claim UC so how do you live with no money? 

Comments

  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 63,178 Championing
    It could be several months before a decision is made on your work capability assessment. There are some who have a decision sooner.
    In the meantime you will receive £77/week (over 25s) for up to a year. If placed into the Support Group there’s no end date. 
    If your SSP is due to end soon then you can apply for New style ESA now but you won’t be paid anything until the SSP ends. You will need your SSP1 form and a fit note to apply. You will also need to have paid the correct amount of NI contributions in the previous 2 tax years. 
  • Broreb1981
    Broreb1981 Online Community Member Posts: 190 Contributor
    I have enough contributions. I'm just concerned about how long people are waiting and what do you do after a year if you've not been assessed 
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 63,178 Championing
    What's the reason why you can't claim UC, is it savings/capital, living with a working partner?
  • Broreb1981
    Broreb1981 Online Community Member Posts: 190 Contributor
    Yes it is 
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 63,178 Championing
    Then if the decision hasn't been made by that time there's nothing more you can do but wait. Have you had a look at the descriptors to see if you qualify for the Support Group? https://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/employment-and-support-allowance/esa-glossary/support-group-descriptors

  • Broreb1981
    Broreb1981 Online Community Member Posts: 190 Contributor
    I feel I do, but again you never know how they will score you. I get enhanced pip for both, I know that doesn't make any difference. I have a pdoc and should be getting a new CPN my current one left. I have schizoaffective disorder and fibromyalgia. 
  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 63,178 Championing
    Support Group isn't about scoring points. You need to meet just one of the descriptors in the link above.
  • Broreb1981
    Broreb1981 Online Community Member Posts: 190 Contributor
    I didn't understand, thanks for explaining that because it said I was eligible for both. But yes I do meet at least one for definite 
  • L_Volunteer
    L_Volunteer Community Volunteer Adviser, Scope Member Posts: 7,922 Championing
    Fom what I am hearing, we have helped you to understand. Am I hearing this right @Broreb1981?

    Please don't hesitate to let us know if you need any further clarification. We are all here for you to support you and listen to you  :)

Categories