Linking rule abolished

Previously, when a claimant left ESA and started work or training within one month, their benefit would be reinstated at the same rate as previously paid if they returned to ESA within 104 weeks.

To coincide with the changes brought by time-limiting contribution-based ESA, the 104-week linking rule has been abolished. This means if you want to claim ESA and it is more than 12 weeks since your award of ESA ended, your claim will not link to your earlier award.