Great got the IB to ESA letter, so.....

If I am on the assesment phase obviously my IB money will be gone and I will be on much less, so can I get Income Support to top it up or is it my hard cheese until I get through the assesment phase?

Also will I have to get fit notes while I'm on this phase from IB please?

If you are migrating from IB to ESA, you will not undergo the assessment phase.

If and when (hopefully when) you are migrated to ESA, you will transfer straight from IB to either the WRAG or support group. You would only have to enter the assessment phase if you are unsuccessful with your transfer to ESA, and decide to appeal the adverse decision. In these circumstances you will have to provide medical statements from your GP pending the outcome of the appeal.

Hi Crazydiamond.

What actual benefit does someone get if they are found fit for work after their IB reassessment medical but go on to appeal?

Is it contribution based or means-tested?

A claimant used to have to go on to 'reduced income support' if they appealed - does that still apply? If so, does that mean those who are not entitled to means-tested benefits receive nothing during an appeal?

Or has it all changed with the introduction of ESA? Clarification much appreciated.

Best wishes

Hi Catherine

IB transfer claimants who fail the WCA and appeal will automatically be entitled to ESA at assessment rate. I haven't heard anything about it being means-tested.

Reduced income support was only available to IB/IS claimants who fail the PCA.

Regards

Derek

if they lose their appeal is the assessment rate paid during the wait for the hearing, repayable ?

Hi xfactor, I think assessment rate ESA is equivalent to JSA, therefore you would not pay any money back?

Best wishes,
Rachel