One year cut off of ESA

I was lucky enough to pass from incapacity to ESA without a medical just on my paperwork, I had a work support interview at a JOB CENTRE where I was told that I should be on the non work benefit. The interviewer advised me that it was my right to appeal but that she would not call me in again as my position was clear to her. If she needed to speak to me again she would telephone. I decided not to rock the boat as I was stressed enough by this time but now that I hear that ESA will be stopped after one year on work support if a job has not been found. I am worried now and I wonder what my next step should be.

In the situation you have described, it will only be contribution-based ESA which will terminate after twelve months.

Income-based ESA will continue beyond the twelve month period, but you will need to satisfy a means test in order to continue to receive the allowance. This will depend on your household circumstances and will take into account such items as the total amount of income and capital/savings.

This will not apply to ESA claimants who are placed in the support group. These claimants will continue to receive contribution-based ESA, as long as they continue to meet the conditions of entitlement to remain in the SG.