Self employed earnings with Universal Credit

poppy12345

You need to send in that fit note ASAP, if you haven't already done that. I'd also advise you to do some research for the LCWRA criteria, it's always a good idea to have some understanding of the descriptors and what they mean. LCWRA decriptors here.

https://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/universal-credit-uc/uc-faq/3904-limited-capability-for-work-related-activity

There's also substantial risk (reg 35 for ESA) not sure what the reg is for UC but it's exactly the same thing. Explained here, please note that it says ESA but it applies to LCWRA for UC as well. https://cpag.org.uk/welfare-rights/resources/article/esa-and-substantial-risk

See link for LCW descriptors https://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/universal-credit-uc/uc-faq/3903-limited-capability-for-work

When you do receive the work capability assessment form, i'd advise you to put as much information as possible about how your conditions affect you're ability to do any type of work. Remember, it's not about the work you can't do, it's the work you can do and that's what you'll be assessed on. They assess your ability to do any type of work.

As you already work, if the work you do contradicts the reasons for your claim this can go against you. Although people do work and claim LCW.

Send relevant evidence with the form to support your claim because they rarely contact anyone for this. The onus is on you to make sure it's sent.

More info here. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition-quick-guide/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition

When you do receive the forms there's guides on the internet to help you fill them out.

mjky73

Hi Poppy12345
Thank you for the advice and links, the UC50 arrived last week and I’m currently plodding through it. I do still work but I’m self employed so I can determine to a large degree how long things take me to do things and build in rest periods.  Are you saying I’m less likely to get the limited capability to work if I’m working? I had to leave my full time civil service job due to not being able to work in the office etc which is why I thought I’d basically ‘manage’ myself. My Dr fully supports me and has in the past written a letter (actually to Tax Credits) to say I would be able to earn more but my physical problems restrict what I can do and for how long. 

I’m working through the descriptors, which is difficult! My head is swirling!
I appreciate the help and info 😀

poppy12345

mjky73 said:

 Are you saying I’m less likely to get the limited capability to work if I’m working?

No, that's not what i said. People do work and claim LCW, it really depends on the reason why you're claiming LCW and what work you actually do. If they contradict each other then it could go against you.