DWP axing another benefit with letters being sent out 'this weekend'

Under the managed migration system, the DWP will be sending notices to Employment Support Allowance (ESA) claimants who need to move onto Universal Credit.
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The Department for Work and Pensions is axing ANOTHER benefit with letters being sent out THIS weekend. Under the managed migration system, the DWP will be sending notices to Employment Support Allowance (ESA) claimants who need to move onto Universal Credit.

It plans to send approximately 60,000 migration notices per month from February until the year's end, aiming to shift an estimated total of ESA recipients into the modernised benefits system. The DWP advises: "In addition, we are focusing on supporting those households who received a migration notice in 2024 and are yet to make the move, particularly before Tax Credits close on 5 April 2025."

You can apply for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if you have a disability or health condition that affects how much you can work. ESA gives you money to help with living costs if you’re unable to work and support to get back into work if you’re able to.

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You can apply if you’re employed, self-employed or unemployed. You can apply for New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if you’re under State Pension age and you have a disability or health condition that affects how much you can work.

You also need to have both worked as an employee or have been self-employed and paid enough National Insurance contributions, usually in the last 2 to 3 years - National Insurance credits also count. You might be able to get Universal Credit at the same time or instead of New Style ESA.

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If you get both benefits, your Universal Credit payment is reduced by the amount you get for New Style ESA. Labour Party MP Sir Stephen Timms said: "This funding boost will support many people as they make the move from old benefits to Universal Credit - ensuring customers feel confident and informed throughout the application process."

He added: "I want to encourage anyone receiving a migration notice over the coming months to act without delay to secure quick access to benefit entitlement." He continued, saying: "The biggest reforms to employment support for a generation will also ensure more people get the help they need to get into work and on at work, by overhauling Jobcentres, tackling inactivity with local work, health and skills plans, and delivering a Youth Guarantee."