Contributory ESA Ending

[Gemstars81]

Hi, I received contributory based ESA which is ending soon. Will they automatically put me on income based ESA or will I have to apply for that myself?

I have googled it and there is nothing conclusive. I need to know before I forget about it again then remember and drive myself mad with it again.

[Stilltrying_]

Hi yes it's a bit confusing isn't it? The contributory ESA is paid because you have paid in enough NI contributions and will be paid regardless of your savings or other circumstances. After 365 days it finishes.

The income based depends on your cirumstances. So for example if you are living with a partner or spouse and they are earning or you have any savings then this will all be taken into account and will affect whether you get any benefit and how much will be paid.

You should not need to apply again and it should just switch over if they have the full details. I have tried to look into this for you and yes it appears you do not need to do anything to switch and if you do then they should have sent you a form out. Obviously if they have sent you a form fill it in . Benefits are a nightmare to work out but if you are in doubt try phoning your Job centre plus or CAB. I really feel for you as they make everything we have to cope with a lot worse with all the insecurity involved and also trying to concentrate on looking at paperwork is very hard in our situation.

Gemma X

[Gemstars81 in reply to Stilltrying_]

Thanks that is a relief. I am in the WRAG so go the job centre when they send me an appointment so I will double check with them as you suggested

[pixiedixie in reply to Stilltrying_]

Confusing isn't the word I'd use, that'd be shambolic. More than 13 weeks on ESA and still waiting for an appointment to be assessed. Wishing you well Gemstar81 x

[vince]

if you are on facebook try 4up and fightback loads of good advice and support.

[Gemstars81]

Lucky for me changing to income based won't change the amount so I don't need to fight it but thanks for all your responses as I feel better about this now