Permitted Work Dilemma

Hi everyone

This is my first post on this forum. This website is truly an excellent resource for anyone having to go through the hurdles of benefit claiming.

I'm looking for some advice with regards to ESA and permitted work. I applied for permitted work (upper limit for 52 weeks) as I was planning to do some self employed work, but I was subsequently unable to as my condition deteriorated. Stupidly, I didn't notify DWP that I wasn't working or earning and have now received a letter saying my permitted work period is over and I can now only earn £20 a week or stop my ESA. When I called them, the advisor told me to send a letter to explain that I hadn't worked and request that this period of permitted work basically be nullified. I do actually want to start some self employed work now but am concerned about my ESA being affected if I do earn over £20 a week. Is it possible that they may grant me a new period of permitted work (earning upto £104 a week) or have I just shot myself in the foot? Any advice on what I should say in the letter? should I say that I can provide bank statements to show that I haven't had any earnings? I'm very confused and worried

Any advice would be much appreciated!

Hi Gordon, many thanks for your reply. I am actually still receiving the assessment rate. I've now written to the DWP to inform them that I didn't work during the permitted work period, anxiously awaiting their reply!

Sk