Stopping benefits and starting work how did you manage without cash until payday?

[trinni]

I have been claiming ESA as was unable to work due to an injury.

I have since had an operation and am now practically 100% again.

I've found a brilliant new job but am wondering - how do you cope without benefit until your first pay day? I have child benefit, child tax credits and a measly amount of maintenance but it isn't much.

What did you do?

How long were you on ESA for, and which type?

If it was over 6 months of income based ESA, you should be eligible for various run ons - 4 weeks more ESA, 4 weeks housing benefit, and possibly £40 per week for the next 12 months (no, really - it's not well known or publicised, but it's a legitimate back to work benefit for those who've been out of work for something disability / medical related).

Speak to your local job centre plus and / or housing benefit department, they should be able to advise you.