I believe rules have recently changed which now allows a person to only claim benefits for up to 4 weeks if living abroad. I will shortly be visiting an old, sick relative who is living in Cairo. I am slightly concerned as my relative may need my help for more than 4 weeks. I realise, in normal circumstances, I would be breaking the new rules that have been implemented. However, as my relative is in dire need of me, I don't consider the circumstances to be 'normal'. If I were to stay longer than 4 weeks and withdraw my ESA from an ATM - would the DWP be able to find out I had stayed longer than 4 weeks?
I'm afraid all I can tell you is that you are required to notify the DWP if you are leaving the country for an extended period, failing to do so would result in a recoverable overpayment of your ESA.
Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
