Permitted Work query

Hi all. I'm looking to verify something. I sent in a pw1 form nearly two weeks ago with regards to self employment as a writer. I made it clear I would be working 10-12 hours a week, and not earning over £152, but that my earnings would be variable. I also mentioned that CAB said to me that I suggest earnings are averaged out over a year. This would allow for any unexpected big weeks with regards to sales etc - not that I mentioned that bit to the dwp.

But my query is "what now?" Do I wait until I get a reply before I start? One person on the ESA phone line has said yes, the other said no. Is there any chance they would say no to my proposal for permitted work despite the fact that it's within the 16 hour and £152 rule? I don't want to start earning if that is the case. On the other hand, I don't want to sit on my hands for weeks or months until I hear from them! Any advice much appreciated!

Thank you, Gary. Do we know how long they normally take to process? And have there been cases you know of for something like writing where the PW has been refused despite following the 16 hour/£152 rule?

The whole system for this seems a mess. If you were starting regular employment as opposed to self employment, you might only have a week after finding out you'd got the job before starting work.

I am disabled. That's why I'm on ESA.

Hi Darinfan,

If you aregiven the go-ahead to do permitted work, I think you will find that it has to be under 16 hours a week, so 15.5 a maximum and you must not go over the £152.00 pw rule.

I dont think you can earn more than this at all (not even it out either). The reason I think this is there was a member not that long ago who was doing permitted work and he earn't 1p over the £152 and his benefit was stopped. I am sure if you search the forum under permitted work you will find it.

Good luck