Do you have to inform DWP if you plan to start studying an OU Course when on ESA and PIP

Sammy5211

Hi.

I am on New Style ESA (Support group) and also PIP.

I have been thinking to start a undergrad degree with the OU which is part time. Will take about 6-8 years to complete. 

Do i have to inform the DWP i am planning to start a OU degree course. I am aware that it should not affect my benefits but my question is do i even need to declare my study status?

alliboy03

No, I don't think so because you're not actively seeking work, you're in the "support group" (which means nay help given!)

You only have to tell ESA when you move in with someone or someone moves in with you. Allegedly legacy benefits people are moving over to UC in 2024. They may or may not do this but it's something to take into consideration. I would just check at the citizen's advice bureau or a local disability charity if you are allowed to have student loans on ESA which is the only thing I'm not a 100% sure about. Also have a look at the website 'dpac'.

poppy12345

alliboy03 said:

You only have to tell ESA when you move in with someone or someone moves in with you.

That's not the only change that needs reporting. Working is one of them. If you're working inside the permitted work rules then it's ok. If you working more than 16 hours per week then your ESA stops. Savings/capital over £6,000 for Income Related ESA also needs to be reported.

alliboy03 said:

 I would just check at the citizen's advice bureau or a local disability charity if you are allowed to have student loans on ESA which is the only thing I'm not a 100% sure about.

If there's a maintenance loan available to you, regardless of whether you take them loan or not, it will affect all means tested benefits.

alliboy03 said:

 Allegedly legacy benefits people are moving over to UC in 2024.

The move to UC for legacy benefit claimants has already started on 9th May. Completion is expected for everyone by end of 2024.

calcotti

alliboy03 said:

You only have to tell ESA when you move in with someone or someone moves in with you. 

That is not correct. OP is claiming new style ESA. There would be no requirement for them to tell DWP if they change their relationship as new style ESA is a non means tested individual benefit.

alliboy03 said:

Allegedly legacy benefits people are moving over to UC in 2024. 

OP has said they are claiming new style ESA and PIP. Neither of these will be affected by UC.