Dismissed from work due to ill health what benefits can I receive?

calcotti

Alice_Holt wrote: »

OP - Another advantage of New Style ESA is that it is a benefit payable for those not fit for work, ....With UC you may be expected to comply with a claimant commitment.

That's a really good point I had never thought of.

Claim ESA first, if found to have LCWRA can then claim UC and will get LCWRA from outset (subject to the usual administrative delay) and UC will then provide a top up to the ESA. If found to have LCW only defer claiming UC until ESA is coming to an end if circumstances have not changed by then.

calcotti

You can download a new style ESA claim form here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/new-style-employment-and-support-allowance-esa-claim-form

You will still need to take it to a JobCentre with ID to start the claim. Note that if you ring the helpline to request the form or to make a JobCentre appointment the automated message will say "Welcome to the Universal Credit helpline" which is confusing. You need to persevere with the automated options to get to the point where you can make a JobCentre appointment. Why new style ESA couldn't have a separate number I have no idea.