Esa50 form filling

As it has been four years since completing one of these forms, what advice can you give me to completing it? Extemely anxious as I have been down this road before and am dreading a medical examination. I suffer from anxiety, depression and tennis elbow of both arms. Hoping you can reassure me!

Hi S and welcome to the forum. On the assumption that you are also new to the site, this FAQ should help you find your way around.

Welcome to Benefits and Work

You should be aware of two things - Firstly, the ESA descriptors and regulations have changed since you last were last assessed. I suggest that you have a good read through our guides before you start completing the form. You can fill out the PDF version if that is easier for you.

ESA claims and appeals

Using The PDF Version Of The ESA50 Questionnaire

You should treat this as a new application and include all relevant information and evidence. Don't assume that DWP/ATOS have any prior knowledge of your claim.

Secondly, both DWP and ATOS are currently working with huge backlogs and many claimants are waiting months to hear anything after submitting the ESA50 Delays nothwithstanding, you must still return your form in time otherwise you run the risk of your benefit being stopped.

As an aside, it appears that your username might be your real name. Many people wish to use an alias in order to preserve an element of anonymity. If you wish to change your username you can do it easily by following the advice in this FAQ.

My full name is showing, how can I stop it?

If you have any further questions please come back and ask them on this topic. You will find it easily in future if you bookmark it, make it a favourite, on your web browser now