I am in a pickle, not so much yet but at the end of October when my 52 weeks permitted work will be time up. I have to either come off ESA or drop to 3 hours a week work. I am now on 8 and continue to improve but as my conditions fluctuate, it is difficult and have already relasped a few times. The question is If I can't do 16 hours then, can I come off ESA, do my 8 hours then reapply for ESA after 12 weeks have lasped??
Apart from the fact that you would be making a new claim, which means re-qualifying for ESA and only being paid at the assessment rate until you do, you would need the DWP to re-confirm that the work you are doing qualifies as Permitted Work, which they may not do until your assessment is complete.
There is also the issue that you might be seen as intentionally depriving yourself in order to receive a higher rate of benefit.
Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
