Deciding whether to appeal

I've recently been moved from IB to ESA and put in the WRAG group. I'm currently trying to decide if I should appeal to be put into the support group as I have a lifelong condition. Following your very helpful advice and reading the FAQs I've asked the DWP for more information around their decision and a copy of my medical. This hasn't come yet and time is running out to lodge my appeal- letter was dated 17th July. I know I can submit the form lodging an appeal pending more info from them and then withdraw if I feel I don't have a strong enough case, but if I do this do I still run the risk of them overturning my ESA decision on paper and losing my benefit without it even going to tribunal? (I really feel I need to see this info. before I know how strong my case will be and if its worth the stress and risk of appealing) Also whilst on IB aree NI contributions paid?

Any reconsideration runs the risk of losing the current award - however, if this were to happen then your case would procede to the appeal tribunal anyway.

Your NI contributions towards your pension are paid when you are on IB and ESA. These do not count towards entitlement for any other contributary benefit.