What could have caused lower IR ESA payment?

Hi David,

I believe I have, that would be from the 19 December (deadline) to 2 January, right?

But like a dummy I believed that I could apply as late as possible but before the final deadline, 18 January, and continue to receive ESA payments until the final deadline, for example if I'd submit my UC claim on 17 January (which is what I did), that I would continue to receive the ESA payments until 16 January, and the UC ones would then start on 17 January.

From what I understand, the 2 weeks run on starts from the deadline, that is not the final deadline, am I right?
Or does the 2 weeks run on starts from when I submitted the UC claim, even if past the deadline but before the final one? Thank you.

Hi David,

I am still trying to wrap my head around everything, but basically the last IR ESA payment I have received was £ 165.35 on 5 January.

The previous one was £ 257.20 on 23 December 2025. I have assumed that the £ 165 one was the 2 weeks run on one. Any thoughts? Thank you.

My apologies, I had responded to old stuff, for some reason I landed on the wrong page. Best to delete my new comments here to avoid confusion. Thanks.

Hi David,

I checked my bank statements. To recap, the deadline was 19 December 2025, and the final one 18 January 2026.

The last 'normal' payment was £ 257.20 on 23 December. The very last payment was £ 165.35 on 5 January.

Then I submitted my UC claim on 17 January. Any thoughts? Thank you.

Hi David,

''Have you looked on your UC account to see if you are eligible for a UC Advance?''.

I have not, but I don't think I need it as I have savings. I would probably not even be eligible. But thanks a lot for the info, I appreciate.