ESA and pensions

[reallymadwoman]

Really just checking I've read the guidance right and not missed anything.

 

I received ESA contribution based, support group and DLA high care low mobility. I've just started being paid a pension on ill health grounds of just under £55 per week. I think I need to tell DWP but it won't affect my benefits, am I right?

[citizenB]

Neither of the benefits you receive are means tested, are they? In which case your pension shouldn't affect either.

[reallymadwoman]

Some pensions do affect ESA, even contribution based, but I believe mine is too small.

[citizenB]

I have left a message for one of the site team, who should be able to confirm one way or another for you.

[Mr.P]

I think I need to tell DWP but it won't affect my benefits, am I right?

 

You do need to tell the DWP and the council if you claim HB or CT benefits. Do this in writing so that you have a paper trail and this will avoid any claim of benefit fraud in the future.

 

There is no great rush to get any letters in the post, so wait for the regulars to comment and advise.

[reallymadwoman]

I don't claim any means tested benefits.

 

Thanks for the help so far.

[antone]

You do need to tell the DWP because an occupational pension can affect ESA©. In your case, though, the amount is too small so it won't affect your payments. For ESA© up to £85 per week of occ pen is disregarded. For amounts over £85 per week, half of the excess is taken into account - so, if it were £100 p/w, they would deduct half of the extra £15, ie £7.50.

 

I'd inform them in writing and send a copy of your pension statement with the letter. They will probably ask to see your pension statement about once a year or so if you remain on ESA for that long.

 

DLA is not affected by pension income at all.

[reallymadwoman]

Thank you, that's what I thought but since my brain is often on another planet, I thought I'd better check.