CTC , WTC and contribution based ESA

densol_2

I worked full time for 30 years up to April 2014 - high earner. I've been self employed since then - low earnings exemption so not paid class 2.

I'm unwell now - just been signed off and will apply for contribution based ESA ( not eligible for income based due to capital )

I've googled and cannot find the answer at all.

Do I have enough NI contributions for ESA on basis of full time work to April 2014 or do I need to top them up voluntarily to be able to claim ESA ?

Can DWP tell me when I apply if I have enough beforehand ?

Can I top up after if I don't or should I top up before I wonder?

I'm single so this £72 per week plus carers allowance will be my only taxable income for CTC and WTC purposes.

Studebacher_Hoch

If you're making your claim now the tax years they'll look at to assess your NI contributions will be 2012/13 and 2013/14 so if you were a high earner in those tax years you should qualify. Stick a claim in and ask them to backdate it to your first day of sickness (up to a maximum of 3 months).

Caz3121

densol wrote: »

I'm single so this £72 per week plus carers allowance will be my only taxable income for CTC and WTC purposes.

you cannot normally claim contribution based ESA and CA at the same time so your carers will likely stop when your CB ESA starts

densol_2

Caz3121 wrote: »

you cannot normally claim contribution based ESA and CA at the same time so your carers will likely stop when your CB ESA starts

That's why I love this site - such knowledgable peeps ! - I'll call carers and update them if the ESA is approved and granted.