Can I stop my PIP without triggering ESA re-assess - Benefits and Work Forum (2024)

Can I stop my PIP without triggering ESA re-assess was created by Meeko

Hello,

I'm on PIP and I also recieve ESA Support Group, and have done for a number of years.

It is coming up to my PIP Review.
I no longer want to claim for PIP.

But I still want to continue my ESA Claim. I don't think I'm ready for Universal Credit, and I am anxious that they won't respect my health condition, mental health condition, or that I'm not "quite there yet" in terms of looking after myself independantly.

There are two options before me:
1) Just End my PIP Claim outright.
2) Fill in the PIP form anyway with my updated condition, knowing I will not recieve the award as I have gotten better since I first claimed PIP.

I am scared of having to go through another ESA re-assessment though. Will either of the above 2 options, trigger an ESA re-assessment? I still fit the criteria for ESA WRAG, which I would like to be in, but I don't have recent paperwork evidence.

What should I do?

Thanks,
Kind regards

Replied by BIS on topic Can I stop my PIP without triggering ESA re-assess

Hi Meeko

We can't tell you what to do in these circ*mstances.

If your condition has improved from when you were awarded PIP you should inform the DWP that there has been a change of circ*mstances. If you think that means you would not longer be awarded PIP then say so. If you think you would be entitled to a lesser award then they will do a review.

Stopping your PIP will not directly affect your ESA at this stage. However, when your next review comes up it will be evident on your records that there has been some improvement in your condition. I can't say how that will affect your ESA.

BIS

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems

Replied by Dan Statham on topic Can I stop my PIP without triggering ESA re-assess

It's worthwhile completing your PIP form. When my (PIP) assessment debacle happened (my PIP "journey" was stopped) I know that immediately (matter of days) I had to fill in another ESA form. I had been awarded ESA 12 months before, and was a lifetime award / support. Likely the same for you, if you don't fill in the form. In all honesty, it takes forever for the DWP to analyse and decide, might just be the breathing room you need? Who knows, you might still be able to claim PIP, which will be far more use to you than ESA if you start work again!

I found that (it's worthwhile chasing up that paperwork) the ESA claim was straightforward and fairly easy, as long as you have paper evidence. No need for a F2F. Just chase up every appointment you ever had with any medical staff / clinics.