I submitted the ESA assessment form and have also provided the last 12 months financial information. Decision arrived today saying that we don't qualify as there are savings of over £16k and that they have used the tax year 2015-2016 for assessment. Current savings are £7.5K.. What wording do I use on the mandatory reconsideration form?
What are you applying for; New Style ESA or legacy ESA?
If the former then your savings are not relevant but the Tax Years used should be 2017-18 and 2018-19 not 2015-16. Did you work in two TYs that I have mentioned?
If the latter then you will need to have been receiving the Severe Disability Premium in either an Income Related Benefit such as Income Support or Housing Benefit. If you were not in receipt of the Premium in the last 30 days then you cannot make a claim for legacy ESA.
Legacy ESA has two routes to eligibility, one is Contribution Based and will use the same Tax Years as above, the other is Income Related, savings over £16,000 will prevent a claim, over £6000 then there is a deduction, it is possible if you have other income that the deduction for your savings and income exceeds the ESA(IR) that you might be paid.
Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
