Do I mention Regulation 35 (2) (b) in ESA50 form?

Hi everyone,

I have CFS/ME and am in the ESA Support group. I am in the process of being helped to complete the ESA50 form for my first reassessment after three years.

Given that Regulation 35 (2) (b) is such a critical point for entry into the ESA Support Group, I am curious as to whether I should mention it explicitly in any of the answers, or whether Maximus are able to infer it from the general content of my answers alone?

If I need to rely on them inferring it, is there a stock-standard line I should include at the foot of all my answers to drive the point home, or should I just make sure the inference is as obvious as possible?

Hi and Welcome to the forum, you might want to have a look at the following FAQ which explain where everything is

Welcome to Benefits and Work

Never rely on DWP or the assessor to draw any inference from your claim form! Spell everything out for them, preferably in words of one syllable. Especially if you are relying on the 'exceptional circumstances' rules, as the onus is one you to clearly show, and prove, your limitations. Our ESA guide gives examples of how to answer the questions.

ESA claims and appeals

May I suggest that you bookmark/favourite this on your web browser now so that you can find it easily in future? This will allow yopu to return with further questions or comments about your ESA without having to start a new topic each time. It helps us enormously when everything relating to the same claim is kept in one place - and I hope you will find it useful too