Hi vicki_s
You are correct when you are talking about legacy benefits but not NS ESA rules are different.
We would advise you to seek advice from your local Welfare Rights organisation; url=https://advicelocal.uk] advicelocal.uk [/url] .
In regards to your second question, bank interest is not classed as earned interest, it is capital, only money earned from employment counts towards supported permitted work/permitted work higher limit.
Earnings within the permitted work limits are ignored for ESA and Housing benefit.
Gary
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems 
