Contributions qualification for the Support Group

kallie wrote:

I've had two appeals running, one against the decision to reject me based on lack of contributions and one against the medical decision. I've lost the appeal over contributions and I've now got forms to fill in for the medical appeal after being given 12 points. I have heard that if I get sufficient points to be in the support group, then my contributions won't matter. Is that true?

No, I am afraid you are confusing two different things.

To qualify for ESA(CB) you need to have accrued sufficient NI Contributions (this is a simplified definition), in the two preceeding full tax years. If you do not have sufficient NICs, you cannot qualify for ESA(CB). This would be what you appealed about.

Once you have qualified for ESA(CB), there is a one year limit on the time you can receive payments, this applies to time spent in the WRAG but not the Support Group.

Have you checked whether you qualify for Income Related ESA? If you don't then you may want to get advice regarding your second appeal.

I hope this explains it better.

Gordon

kallie wrote:

Thanks for both your contributions. I will start on a DLA form tomorrow and give up on the ESA appeal.

I really would advise you to get advice before making a decision on your ESA appeal, it may well be that there is no point because you do not qualify in the first place, but our advice is general and not specific to your circumstances.

Gordon