Hi hope someone can advise. I will try to keep it short.
Question one:
How long after sending the ESA50 form is it likely to be before you hear from them if you are going to be asked for an assessment? And if you don't hear before the expected time, is it safe to assume you will not have to have one? I heard from someone the other day, that if you don't hear within 3 weeks of sending the form to them, then you are probably not going to be asked in for an ATOS assessment, and will probably be automatically put on to ESA. Is this true?
Question two:
If you DO have an assessment and they deem someone 'fit for work,' and you appeal, do you keep getting the benefit until a decision is made? Because I have heard it can take a YEAR for a decision.
Thank you. :)
Question one:
How long after sending the ESA50 form is it likely to be before you hear from them if you are going to be asked for an assessment? And if you don't hear before the expected time, is it safe to assume you will not have to have one? I heard from someone the other day, that if you don't hear within 3 weeks of sending the form to them, then you are probably not going to be asked in for an ATOS assessment, and will probably be automatically put on to ESA. Is this true?
Question two:
If you DO have an assessment and they deem someone 'fit for work,' and you appeal, do you keep getting the benefit until a decision is made? Because I have heard it can take a YEAR for a decision.
Thank you. :)
