ESA Rate Question

Uncertain

I've been receiving the contribution based ESA since late Dec as I have been off sick long term. I am currently getting £60.50 per week paid fortnightly.

I understood the rate increased after 13 weeks to something around £80?

Does anybody know if this is correct and, if so, why mine may not have increased?

I have been to two "Pathway to Work" interviews (even though I have a job open to return to!) and filled in the multi page medical form. I've not been asked to attend a medical (yet?).

Thanks

cabbage

Hi Undertain

For the first 13 weeks you are in an assessment phase. After this, premiums and components are added, increasing the amount you will receive each week.

After your 13 assessment, you will be placed into one of two groups, either a work related activity group (mostly for those who could return to work at some stage) and a support group (mainly for those who may not return to work). The old rates for this were £24 per week for the work related activity group and an extra £29 for the support group.

It may not be possible to assess you fully in 13 weeks. If this is the case, you will continue to receive £60.50 (old rate) and then once the assessment is finished, the extras you are entitled to are backdated to the 13 week mark.

Benefits have all gone up slightly from yesterday and I don't have the up to date figures but the figures given are pre 06 April 09.

There are a host of premiums available including help with mortgage costs, pensioner premiums etc etc etc

More info including the increased weekly amounts can be found here
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/FinancialSupport/esa/index.htm

hanny83_2

Cabbage, your signature should be, "It's advice- take it or leaf it"!! He he :rotfl: