Hi, my name is Paulthedaid! Can I sell childrens books on ESA and PIP?

Paulthedaid
Paulthedaid Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener
edited November 2024 in Benefits and income

Hi there - I am living on ESA and PIP, and have a severe disability.

I was recently able to write and illustrate a children's book, and I hope to sell it on Kindle Direct. I am going to inform the DWP via letter, but I want to check that this is something I am allowed to do first of all?

I don't expect to make a lot of money, but I don't want to jeopardise my benefits in any way.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Comments

  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 64,463 Championing

    This will be known as permitted work and you must fill out a PW1 form and return it to them. You must make sure your earnings are no more than £183.50/week and you work less than 16 hours/week.

    You will be treated as self employed and maybe asked to send details of your earnings and expenses.

  • Jimm_Alumni
    Jimm_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 5,717 Championing

    hello @Paulthedaid, welcome to the Scope community 😊 I think it's really cool you've written and illustrated a children's book. I've always wanted to write something I could actually show and share with people but I always get so anxious around it. Congrats on finishing the book and I hope self-publishing it goes well!

    I hope regarding your benefits question Poppy has helped clear up any unknowns. I will just mention, when Poppy says that your earnings should be below a certain amount that is talking about ESA. Your PIP will not be affected by any earnings you receive from the book.

  • WhatThe
    WhatThe Online Community Member, Scope Member Posts: 4,004 Championing
    edited November 2024

    👏

  • Paulthedaid
    Paulthedaid Online Community Member Posts: 2 Listener

    Thank you guys so much! This is really helpful!

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