Working on ESA

Creative2016 · 29 July 2016 at 9:13PM

I have been on ESA for 15 weeks, I have had my medical assessment but I haven't heard anything back but I feel ready to carry on my passion which is nails. I had to give up my very successful salon due to anxiety but I am missing my craft, I already have all my nail products and I would like to do some nails on family, friend and old clients who have become friends however I would have to charge to cover my costs but I am far from ready to work in a salon, seek work etc but I feel ready to do bits and bobs in a familiar environment but this would not be enough to pay my, rent, feed my daughter, pay my bills etc.
What should I do?

HB58 · 29 July 2016 at 9:25PM

You can apply to do Permitted Work. There are limits on the hours that you can do and how much you can earn. You must get permission form DWP before you start.

https://www.gov.uk/employment-support-allowance/eligibility

Creative2016 · 29 July 2016 at 9:30PM

So I can apply even though I haven't been put in to a category yet? How long can permitted work go on for?

TELLIT01 · 29 July 2016 at 10:02PM

Permitted work is limited to 52 weeks if you are put in the WRAG and is unlimited time period if in the Support Group.

BabyDoll · 30 July 2016 at 3:04PM

Creative2016 wrote: »

So I can apply even though I haven't been put in to a category yet? How long can permitted work go on for?

If you work 16 hours are less you can still claim ESA as well. Over 16 hours you loose ESA. I was on ESA and got a 40 hour a week job so called, let job center know and ESA stopped.

Creative2016 · 30 July 2016 at 3:49PM

Would the Dr even give out sick notes if people are able to work?
How much can be earnt if I was to work 16 hours or less?

mel48rose · 30 July 2016 at 4:28PM

My son is on ESA. He has just found out he can earn a max amount of £103 a week before it affects his benefit. He is in the support group. Good luck with whatever you decide.