A 13-week assessment phase applies to all new ESA claimants. During this phase, you are normally paid just a basic allowance of ESA (see 7 below for exceptions); if you are aged under 25, this is paid at a lower rate.

During the assessment phase you should undergo the work capability assessment (see 3 below ). The assessment phase can be extended beyond 13 weeks if there is a delay in completing this assessment. Such delays are currently the norm and can last for several months. The assessment phase can also be extended if you appeal over a decision that you do not have a limited capability for work and claim ESA in the meantime; the assessment phase will continue until the appeal has been dealt with by a First-tier Tribunal.

The assessment phase will be reduced by any time that you have spent on a jobseeker’s allowance ‘extended period of sickness’ immediately before moving onto ESA (see Chapter 13(4) ).
ESA Regs , regs 5 & 87(2)

Linked awards – If your ESA claim l