ESA money paid to me - it is returnable if I am turned down?

luminated

I was searching Google for the answer to this one and have read opposite posts. Some say if you are eventually turned down you need to repay all you have been given. Others say NO you don't!!

I never even realised you were paid a penny when going through the claim process/medical, etc. I assumed money only when claim approved. But I did wonder why my bank details were taken when initially making my telephone application. The person may have said but my mind was elsewhere when she was covering this bit.

ce1

Hi, no you dont pay anything back if you fail the assesment stage.

cit_k

No its not repayable.

Unless it was proven to be claimed fraudulently that is.

But failing the assessment under normal circumstances just means ESA ends (unless you appeal) and you dont have to repay anything.