ESA backdate enquiry

[danielmoore22]

I've been claiming ESA since may and had my assessment two weeks ago. They made a decision on the 22/04/2015 that I be placed into the Support Group option and was told I be backdated from 3rd August 2014 to present.

 

I've asked them 4 times how this is worked out, they all said my back pay calculation will be done tomorrow or latest monday and once this has been done it is then sent off to the social fund department for authorisation for payment. I know I have £1000 debt with them which I'm currently paying back from my ESA at £28.88 every two weeks.

 

My Question, Is it normal practice for them to take this amount from my back payment even though I have a arrangement with them which has been in place for over 6 month's.

 

I can't seem to get any answer's from them, only that deductions from my back pay will only be for any over payment's, and yet some are saying if you have social fund debt, but you won't be affected if you have a arrangement.

 

Thanks

[mikeymack2002]

DWP tend to recover any over payments by arrangement but, can collect it from future awards. Plus if you have a large back payment due they can take the money from that, this would clear your arrears/debt quicker.

[estellyn]

Yes, they'll want the fortnightly payment from the back pay.