Help with ESA Premiums

Good afternoon, firstly may I thank all those that make this site possible, what an excellent resource!

This is my first post and I'm looking for a little direction if possible please. The situation is as follows: I am currently receiving ESA at the assessment rate. My ESA is contribution-based. Following a recent deterioration in my condition my award for DLA was changed to higher rate care component. My situation at this stage, I think, makes me eligible for the enhanced disability premium (due to the DLA) and the severe disability premium (as I fit all the criteria).

My understanding is that basically these premiums mean that my living allowance increases. Where I am slightly unsure, is how I go about getting them. It appears that I may need to also claim Income related ESA to top up my CB - at what point therefore does CB cut off? I have, incidentally, already received the enhanced disability component as a top up to my CB ESA, and also received the questionnaire for the severe disability premium. Do I need to claim IR ESA for this, or will it just get added on to my CB ESA. As far as I'm aware I should pass the means tests as I have no savings and no other income. Some assistance would be greatly appreciated, thanks!

Secondly, I have just reached the 12/13 week stage of assessment rate, but haven't heard anything at all about a medical, does my money stay at the assessment rate until I hear something? From what I read, it appears that I could be waiting some time yet!?

Many thanks in advance

The assessment period of 12 weeks is a nominal period for people claiming ESA from scratch. Payment of the assessment rate will continue until a decision is made (unless it takes the claimant over the 365 day allowance for contributory benefit for claimants not in the Support Group). If you ESA claim is approved then main phase payment will be backdated to the first day of week 13 of the claim.

Hi, I have checked my award letter which clearly states that I am receiving CB ESA and it increased due to "a change in money coming in" by £15.15 (the amount of the EDP).

I did call the DWP who needed to go away and call me back. Upon doing so they have informed me that a change has been made and I will receive a new award letter. As I find it difficult to speak properly on the phone she seemed a little reluctant to explain, although she did say I was being awarded the correct premiums. When I asked if I needed to claim IR ESA for any top up she said it was not necessary?

The plot thickens...