ESA - Received forms asking how my illness is affecting me now

93123

How long do I have to fill it in before they stop my benefit for not replying? I've been on ESA for 6 months, had my medical about 4 months ago and was put on the work programme. What happens if they're not satisfied with what I write? I started voluntary work last month, once a week, and I'm still struggling with that, I don't feel ready at all yet, I'm gradually building myself up and do not need pressure off them, otherwise what's the point in putting me on the work programme only to take me off ESA prematurely?

Torry_Quine

93123 wrote: »

How long do I have to fill it in before they stop my benefit? I've been on ESA for 6 months, had my medical about 4 months ago and was put on the work programme. What happens if they're not satisfied with what I write? I started voluntary work last month, once a week, and I'm still struggling with that, I don't feel ready at all yet, I'm gradually building myself up and do not need pressure off them, otherwise what's the point in putting me on the work programme only to take me off ESA prematurely?

They can reassess you at any time.

93123

Thanks, I know they can, I wanted to know this: How long do I have to fill it in before they stop my benefit for not replying?

It would be easier for me if I didn't have to rush and send in a vague response.

Mara69

93123 wrote: »

How long do I have to fill it in before they stop my benefit for not replying? I've been on ESA for 6 months, had my medical about 4 months ago and was put on the work programme. What happens if they're not satisfied with what I write? I started voluntary work last month, once a week, and I'm still struggling with that, I don't feel ready at all yet, I'm gradually building myself up and do not need pressure off them, otherwise what's the point in putting me on the work programme only to take me off ESA prematurely?

Why not just be completely honest? I am struggling to see what the problem is here.

PippaGirl_2

OP, to answer your question, the letter accompanying your form should have a date on it by which it should be returned by. From memory I think they give you 2-3 weeks but that might be from when they send it not from when you receive it but the letter should clearly state the return by date.

My MH is such that I was unable to complete mine so a Mind advocate together with a CAB volunteer helped me. So if you need help from an agency, arrange that as soon as possible.

93123

Mara69 wrote: »

Why not just be completely honest? I am struggling to see what the problem is here.

I plan to! But if I rush things I tend to write only half of the issue. Like many other people, I'd prefer to send an accurate description of how this complicated illness affects me day to day, not some in the moment paragraph. You know how harsh ATOS are...

PippaGirl wrote: »

OP, to answer your question, the letter accompanying your form should have a date on it by which it should be returned by. From memory I think they give you 2-3 weeks but that might be from when they send it not from when you receive it but the letter should clearly state the return by date.

My MH is such that I was unable to complete mine so a Mind advocate together with a CAB volunteer helped me. So if you need help from an agency, arrange that as soon as possible.

Thankyou!

HB58

The form must be received by ATOS (or the Royal Mail depot on their behalf) within 4 weeks of the date at the top of the letter that accompanied the ESA50.

lemontree

Send the form Recorded Delivery and keep a copy.
It is very difficult to prove that the deadline has been met if the document is lost in the Post.