Notice of Compliance Telephone Interview Contribution ESA

Yes, I have the original letter from my former employee stating the compensation amount which I sent back in 2019. I was only able to work this situation out after Freefee’s clarification. My interview is on Tuesday, I don't think I can get legal advice before then. I take it they will rake me over the coals, I feel so hopeless.

Thank you for your advice Gary, I’ll record the call for my records and make some bullet point notes.

Thank you for sharing, I will try and call Mind or CAB and get some advice.

Hi all,

I’m looking for advice on my current situation with the DWP. I’m now receiving Contribution-Based ESA (CESA) only, having previously been told I was also receiving Income-Related ESA (IR ESA). Last October, I had a compliance interview where the officer stated that the review was based solely on my savings.

During the interview:

The compliance officer confirmed I had been receiving both IR ESA and CESA up until the interview.
He asked for the letter from my former employer confirming the compensation payment I received in 2019, which I had already sent back then.

I told them that since receiving the compensation payment, I have always been over the £16,000 savings threshold. I also disclosed exactly how much I currently have in total.

I sent the requested letter again in November via Special Delivery (which was shown as delivered). I tried calling him for weeks afterward, left messages, but never heard back.

Now, I’ve received another letter from him saying the Decision Manager has returned the case and needs more info before making a decision on whether I need to pay back the overpayment and is asking for the same letter again and now six years of bank statements. They’ve asked me to highlight the compensation payment.

Key Concerns

Why do they now need six years of bank statements? Is this still just about my savings, or could they be looking for something else they’re not telling me?

My mum puts money in my account for food and household shopping for both of us. Could they view this as income, even though it’s entirely spent on essentials?

I’ve spent money over the years on some gambling and mobile games but it was all from my savings or gifts from family. Could this be viewed negatively?

How do I explain transactions like:
Transfers between my accounts (for better savings or accessibility).
Larger sums gifted by my mum for birthdays/Christmas etc or held for her?

Are they going to comb over every transaction and want an explanation?

I’ve been transparent about my finances and will provide what they ask for, but I’m feeling very anxious about what this new request might mean. If anyone has experienced a similar situation or can offer advice, I’d really appreciate it!

Thanks so much for your help.