Do I need to be assessed for UC if I had ESA ?

Hi,

I recently had my UC work commitments call with the work coach. I have previously been getting limited capability- work related activity group ESA (IR). This has been the case since 2012 and I was never asked to do any work things due to my condition.

Because I now need housing benefit, I was forced to apply to UC. My workcoach says I will need a fitnote and to do another assessment. I told them that I've already been assessed for ESA and I am currently getting it, and they should carry my award over to UC. However, they told me this may not be the case because this is another benefit and not ESA. He said the caseworker will make a decision.

Anybody have experience with this or can tell me what the law says about this? Im really stressed now - help!

Hi thedoublehazecraze

I am a bit puzzled by your post, you say that you have previously been getting limited capability- work related activity (LCWRA) group ESA (IR). Is this a top up of NS ESA?

If you are on legacy benefits then you would be placed in either the Work related activity Group (WRAG) or the Support Group

The Government have said that if you are in the Support Group or the Work-Related Activity Group on ESA then this will be carried over into your Universal Credit claim and you won't need to go through an extra Work Capability Assessment.

I would contact a local welfare rights worker who can take all your circumstances into consideration.

Gary