no benefit due to not enough NI contributions???

busybee100

busybee100 wrote: »

But then again there will be people in the support group or claiming middle rate care DLA who can continue to claim contribution based ESA how do they fulfil the first rule?

I've just realised my misunderstanding (I think) People on middle and high rate care DLA can claim income based ESA as their partners earnings are not taken into account? Is that correct? Sorry OP slightly off topic.

HB58

No, DLA and ESA are 2 totally seperate benefits. DLA is not means tested, ESA can be. Being on a higher rate of DLA can increase the amount of income that a household is allowed but that is all.

busybee100

Oh ok.
This is about income related ESA

Your partner will not be classed as being in remunerative work if he or she is-

• mentally or physically disabled and has reduced earnings or works reduced hours as a result of that disability
• involved in a trade dispute
• regularly and substantially caring for someone who is in receipt of Attendance Allowance or the highest or middle rate of the care component of Disability Living Allowance.

http://www.benefitsnow.co.uk/esa/incrit.asp


Ah I see what you mean, (I think) this would not mean you are eligible for ESA only as a disregard if you were.