ESA whilst on sabbatical

I have been on long term sick for almost a year, my employer is struggling without me and I know I am close to a 3rd and final review on their sickness policy. I am no where near ready to return to work. I am currently receiving ESA. (CB) since February and have just been awarded pip. It would be a huge benefit to the organisation (as they could recruit a temporary replacement) and to me so I don't have to loose my job if I took a 6 month sabbatical but I think I would not be entitled to ESA if I take this option. Does anyone know if this is correct please?

Hi Dee,

I am not sure that you are right. ESA is payable whether you are in employment (as long as you are not getting SSP) or not.

I'm sure one of the other mods will correct me if I am wrong!

Hi D,

MHB is indeed correct !

Another aspect to consider is that payment of CB ESA only, whilst not in The Support Group, (SG) only lasts for 365 days : 12 Month Limit for ESA(CB)

So unless you are assessed and placed into The SG before 365 days have passed your CB ESA payments would cease.

You would then have to undergo the means test for entitlement to payment of Income Related (IR) ESA.

bro58

Many thanks for clarifying this, my intention initially would be to go for a 6 month sabbatical. I have been on CB ESA for 15 weeks and as yet have not received the medical questionnaire or been called for any type of assessment.

Dee wrote: Many thanks for clarifying this, my intention initially would be to go for a 6 month sabbatical. I have been on CB ESA for 15 weeks and as yet have not received the medical questionnaire or been called for any type of assessment.

Hi D,

Even though we have heard from several members where they have waited over a year for an assessment "After" returning their ESA50 Questionnaire, it is unusual that you have not yet received your ESA50 15 weeks into your claim.

You could make a start on the Pdf version now in anticipation of receiving the hard copy ESA50 through the post :

Using The PDF Version Of The ESA50 Questionnaire

Whilst referring to the guides on this page :

ESA Claims Guides

See also :

How long do I have to complete the ESA50?

ESA50 too big for the envelope

&

Sending Documents to the DWP or Maximus

bro58

It seems quite bizarre that u fill in these type forms for pip and have the face to face assessment yet one cannot inform the other. What a waste of time and money. I will take your advice and make a start ready. Thanks again