How long before Incap re-assessment?

milliebear00001

Hi there

My husband recently attended his first medical and was subsequently re-awarded Incap. The letter we got states that the next date for likely assessment will be 5 years hence. Is this usual? Also, is it really likely to be 5 years or will they call him back before that in all likelihood?

Thanks.

healy

A review date for 5 years is the longest length of time for review that is given and is not that common, often people are reviewed after a year but it can range from months to five years and some are deemed exempt and have no review date. It is hard to say if he will be reviewed again before the 5 years because there are various changes planned for Incapacity Benefit that may or may not happen.

milliebear00001

Thanks. I thought it seemed a long time, but I guess they just thought his condition is highly unlikely to improve in that time! Is there anything in proposal form yet about changes to disability and incapacity benefits? Wouldn't mind getting a heads-up on how we might be affected.

healy

Yes there is alot and if you look at the DWP website you will see the details, it may takes some hours to read it all!

[Deleted User]

milliebear00001 wrote: »

Thanks. I thought it seemed a long time, but I guess they just thought his condition is highly unlikely to improve in that time! Is there anything in proposal form yet about changes to disability and incapacity benefits? Wouldn't mind getting a heads-up on how we might be affected.

The biggest change will come for NEW claims from 27th october this year when employment support allowance replaces I/B (for new claims),it could be many years before existing I/B claimants are transfered to ESA,but to be honest the plans are unclear,and of course there will be an election in 2010 at the latest.
If by disability benefits you mean DLA then there are no changes planned

milliebear00001

Hmm - doesn't look good does it!? My OH gets both Incap and DLA (he has secondary progressive MS) but has few physical symptoms (mostly cognitive degeneration). It seems the Government are gunning for people with mental health/cognitive issues - the most vulnerable. Might be more difficult to convince them my husband is not capable of holding down a job! Just when you think you can breathe again...

[Deleted User]

milliebear00001 wrote: »

Hmm - doesn't look good does it!? My OH gets both Incap and DLA (he has secondary progressive MS) but has few physical symptoms (mostly cognitive degeneration). It seems the Government are gunning for people with mental health/cognitive issues - the most vulnerable. Might be more difficult to convince them my husband is not capable of holding down a job! Just when you think you can breathe again...

As your husband has just been given a 5 year review date i really wouldnt worry too much,like my gran used to say "never trouble trouble till trouble troubles you":j