new style ESA while on universal credit

Hi Modjim32

Welcome to the forum, you might want to have a look at the following FAQ which explains where everything is.

Welcome to Benefits and Work .

New Style ESA is a Contribution Based benefit and is not means tested with the exception of pension income which can reduce the amount that you receive.

The Income Related benefit that goes with NS ESA is Universal Credit.

A 13 week assessment phase applies to all new ESA claimants. During the assessment phase you should undergo the work capability assessment. The assessment phase can be extended beyond 13 weeks if there is a delay in completing this assessment.

NS ESA and UC are not the same in regard to sickness payments; NS ESA pays Class 1 NI Credits which in addition to being used in regard to your State Pension can also be used (in part), for a new claim of NS ESA. UC only pays Class 3 Credits which can only be used for your pension.

To get New Style ESA you’ll need to have been an employee or self-employed and paid (or been credited with) National Insurance contributions, usually in the last 2 to 3 years.

www.gov.uk/national-insurance

You will also need to have a fit note (sometimes called ‘sick note’ or ‘doctor’s note’) but you can start making your claim before you have one.

You can put your information into one of the online benefit calculators to see which will be best for you.

www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators

If you are awarded Limited Capability for Work then the NE ESA is only payable for a year, if you receive Limited Capability for Work Related Activity then it is payable for as long as you meet the criteria.

Our UC and ESA claim guide explains the criteria that you will need to meet.

www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/help-for-claimants/esa1

If you have any further questions then please come back to the forum and ask.

Gary