Update - Migrating from CB-ESA to UC

[TabbyBeast]

I don't know how to link to my previous thread but we had to migrate from CB-ESA / IS / CA.

Someone on that thread said that when I get my first statement to check I've been awarded LCW-WRA as I'm in the Support Group. This element wasn't included in the statement due to be paid on 17th September.

I had problems with the job centre saying they hadn't received the details of my ESA claim and for a few weeks I've had to have a weekly phone call with a work coach. During this time, my work commitments were zero hours requirement to look for work - today this has been updated to say there is no requirement to look for work. So I'm assuming they now have my CB-ESA details and know I'm in the Support Group.

Does anyone know if the LCW-WRA is usually backdated so my next payment in October is likely to show this element?

I asked the question on my journal but I haven't had a response yet... I just know I'll be fretting all weekend so just trying to get an idea how it usually works.

If you were receiving ESA (whether New Style, 'Old Style' Cont Based or Income Related) before moving to UC then the outcome of a Work Capability Assessment putting you in Support Group should follow you to UC. You should get the additional element for LCfWRA and have no Work Related Requirements.

Two issues seem to cause problems. One is that UC seem not to pick up ESA details. The other is that 'front of house' staff at Job Centres don't understand the difference between people who have migrated and those making new claims based on being unable to work. The latter need fit notes and will have more focussed attention from Work Coaches.

If there's been a mess up and the payment for your first AP missed the LCfWRA element tell them they've got it wrong and ask for it to be added. At worst you should get the arrears in AP#2 but I suspect they've the means to correct it sooner.

As ever, the Help to Claim guys at Citizens Advice can help resolve problems up to ensuring your first payment is correct.

That's a fantastic help, thank you!

I get LFCWRA from migration onto UC, mine started from the third UC payment and wasn't backdated. May not be the case for everyone of course

There is a 'wait period' before the LCfWRA element is paid in UC. It's usually expressed as 3 months but actually relates to Assessment Periods after giving medical evidence to DWP. That period applies even if you get LCfWRA 'automatically' for (eg) receiving Chemo for cancer. But that's on a new application. It would also apply if you were migrated and only then sought LCfW/WRA. That's actually quite common becuase under ESA/IS etc the claimant's partner is not required to show they cannot work.

People in ESA Support Group moving to UC, whether under 'managed migration' because their ESA will cease, or moving voluntarily for whatever reason shouldn't have to reserve that Assessment Phase/Period. If they're in the Support Group under ESA, or one of the small number of people still getting extra money for Limited Capability for Work (only) in ESA the additional cash and (for SG/LCfWRA) lack of Work Related Requirements should follow without interruption.

Iam on esa support group, I had to migrate to uc on Monday, had an id review at jobcentre today. And have been told I need a fit note & a work interview on Friday? But I was made to believe I would not have to do any of that as I was in esa support group? Does anyone know how to help or what should I do?

@Jmam

There is a widespread issue where people getting ESA under old (legacy) rules and migrated to UC . Claimants re being asked/required to produce 'fit' notes and do other stuff about work.

This should not happen; if you had a Work Capability Assessment in ESA the outcome should follow you to UC upon migration.