New style esa - so confused

Baz_Kiminger

Is it literally true that new style esa can be paid even if one has savings over 16k? I have state pension but my wife aged 60 receives PIP but has has had no work or esa/UC income as she has severe arthritis because we were informed not eligible for esa/UC because of savings so did not apply. She does get a small private pension less than £20 per week. She is unable to physically look after another person but does get CA for supportive care to a person who has complex mental health compromises and needs almost constant comminication and encouragement to function. We both think this caring role is too demanding on my wife when she is simultaneously contending with her own severe pain and physical compromises. What should we e doing, if anything. The confusion is just not knowing or getting straight answers or sometimes even basic understanding of what we are asking. We accept whatever is the answer - but just want to know whether we have a route to claim or not, and hate wondering whether she could e getting something but it's just too complicated to find out. Her PIP of course is very much appreciated but there seems no consideration for what would have been income potential if she were physically able - and she just isn't, and significantly so, as indicated by her PIP, and even noticeably deteriorating even more in her capability. 

Muttleythefrog

"Is it literally true that new style esa can be paid even if one has savings over 16k? " - yes. This benefit is not means tested. It does however rely on previous contributions from work and if she has not worked then it may not be relevant - check.
Refer https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-style-employment-and-support-allowance

Spoonie_Turtle

If she has ever worked (to earn or be credited with enough NI contributions within a single tax year) then she may still qualify, due to a relaxation of one of the contribution conditions since she claims Carers Allowance.

https://www.entitledto.co.uk/help/employment-and-support-allowance-contribution-based

elsien

You say that the caring role is getting too much for her, but realistically is she’s still going to be providing that support anyway whether she gets carers or not?
not saying she should carry on, but it’s not always so straightforwards to step away. 

Baz_Kiminger

Good question thank you Elsien. Yes that would be difficult in itself because the caring cannot be abandoned, but it ties in with family discussions about whether daughter may have scope to take over that role. Thank you too Muttley,  Spoonie, those info do indeed feel very helpful.