ESA question

[Askastupidquestion]

I applied online for esa a few weeks ago and started getting payments pretty much straight away. Last week I had a telephone interview and I've received a letter saying they need more information and I have to have a face to face interview. My question is, if they decide I'm not entitled, will I have to pay back what I've had so far? They're not doing face to faces atm so it could be months and they've said payments will continue.

Bumping

You'd be receiving same as JSA rate at the moment wouldn't you? So I doubt they would ask you to pay any back if they evaluate you're not entitled to ESA.

No, thats the assessment rate

I believe the amount I'm receiving is the full amount I'd get. Not sure about JSA but I'm not entitled to that anyway. I'm not entitled to anything other than CB and (maybe) ESA.

When I was on ESA the amount you get at the beginning is the assessment rate. Once you have had your assessment the rate will change. If they find that you don't fit the criteria then the money will stop but you don't need to pay any back. If they place you into the group's then you will receive a letter telling you what your rate now is and roughly how long the award is for.

@Dancerinthemoonlight thank you. I do think it's the full amount though, possibly due to covid and a backlog of applicants. Good to know I won't owe it back.

Thanks @Butterer, yes it's the full amount. I'm on hold to them now. If there's going to be months before a decision, and I'd have to pay it back then I will cancel the claim now. I've seen too many people turned down and paying it all back would be a massive struggle.

You won't need to pay anything back if they have paid you the wrong amount due to an assessment.

Or if you don't meet the conditions after a health assessment iyswim.

Thank you. I spoke to them (after an hour on hold) and they confirmed I won't have to pay anything back, no matter how long it takes. I appreciate the help.

Thank you so much. I'm hoping it takes a while tbh, if the face 2 face was tomorrow I'm not sure I'd be up for it. I left a job I loved in June as my colitis and shitty mental health meant I couldn't face it.