Hi
In October 2016, I was re-assessed for ESA. I was placed again in the support group. I have always been on Contribution-based ESA since my first claim in 2012.
In May 2017, I started full-time employment, however it was too much for me and I left 5 weeks later.
When I reapplied for ESA, the call handler put me on Income-based ESA as we both thought I had not made enough contributions during my 5 week employment. They sent me out the forms to sign and requested that I send in a fit note. However, a few days later, I received a call from the benefit delivery centre, who informed me that because I was previously on CB ESA in the Support Group, and because I had re-claimed within 12 weeks of 'signing off', that I would automatically be entitled to CB ESA at the same rates as before. My last few payments have all been at the previous rate of £109.65.
My reason for writing is that this all seems too good to be true! Is it, or is this a DWP policy?
Thank you.
