ESA questions

Emily93

Hi all, I just had a few questions regarding ESA;

I previously claimed it when I lived away from home, but after moving home I stopped it because I didn't need the money any more. The decision to put me in a Support Group with this first claim was made with no problems within two weeks, no medical required.

Now I'm moving out to try to become independant and I started off a second claim;
I sent my form off at the beginning of January and received a letter saying my claim was accepted and asking me to replace my medical certificates on the 16th of January. I got a medical certificate (3 months) from my doctor and sent it off on the 17th of January, but on the 22nd of January I received another letter saying that my medical certificate had expired and could I send a new one.

I guess my question is, is 5 days a long enough time for them to have received and processed my medical certificate or would it be worth waiting another week and then phoning if nothing has happened?

I have very severe anxiety and talking on the phone really kicks it off and stops me physically being able to talk, so putting off a phone call for as long as it isn't absolutely necessary (as stupid and lazy as it sounds), is something I'd like to achieve

Thank you for any and all help..

skintmacflint

Well they very well could have it now, and processed it, but at the same time they can and do lose these notes within their offices.

If they have mislaid it, and you don't call you risk having your claim closed.

Emily93

Thank you for your response, my worrying was unnecessary, I got a letter the next day saying they'd received my certificate so I guess they just crossed over in the post. Thank you again!

nannytone_2

ALWAYS send any documents/letters/certificates by recorded delivery.
then there can be no doubt

rogerblack

Emily93 wrote: »

Hi all, I just had a few questions regarding ESA;

I previously claimed it when I lived away from home, but after moving home I stopped it because I didn't need the money any more. The decision to put me in a Support Group with this first claim was made with no problems within two weeks, no medical required.

I assume this last claim was over 12 weeks ago?
If so, the new claim will be fresh, and not linked to the other one.