New ESA50 form has arrived

Hello,

I have a GP appointment to renew my fit note coming up. However, it falls on the day after the current fit note expires, and the day before the next ESA payment is due.

Assuming she is prepared to issue another fit note, my question is whether I will miss out on a payment because of this?

By the time I send it, I will have days unaccounted for and will have missed that payment date.

Also, I have a long-term problem (almost 7 years) which I have only been seeing a therapist for, and getting help for this year - it seems my GP wants to issue 2 months at a time when there is no way I will be ready by then. I don't want to have to keep returning to see her every 2 months, it is difficult for me.

Do you think if I bring a letter I received from my therapist about the stage I am at, it will be helpful in getting a fit note that covers a longer time?

If I'm not ready, I'm not ready - it's going to take longer than 2 months.

Also, am I correct in thinking that I just need fit notes to cover the 13 weeks since I applied for ESA? Or will I continue to need fit notes if placed in one of the groups?

Thank you

Your GP can issue a continuance fit note so there will be no break.

I expect your ESA will arrive on time but you need to get the note to them quickly to continue your claim.

Your notification placing you in the ESA group would state what you need to do to continue to be eligible. I don't think fit notes are generally required once you have bern assessed. You could ring the number on your letter to check.

If you need to get fit notes for a longer period you could try getting your therapist to write to your GP or just talk to your GP about it. Has your GP suggested any treatment? Is s/he aware you are seeing a therapist? Is it on the NHS?

Hello,

I am wondering if there is a way to find out which type of ESA I am currently receiving.

I am in the assessment phase, I have submitted my form.

How do I know if it is contribution-based or income-related?

Thank you

I phoned them to make sure.

You were right, Gordon.

Thanks

I have just received a letter saying that I have been placed in the Support Group - I have not been asked to attend a medical assessment.

Thank you! I couldn't have done it without your help.