ESA National Insurance Credits

I am looking after my father for last 5 years, never applied for any benefits as I could afford everything myself but recently after all this years I finally realized i need help as cannot continue like this.

Father is from Poland living with me for last 5 years.
In late 2009 he stopped working as first hart attack. Now he is after two hart attacks and amputated leg upper knee.

Only March 2014 I have applied for PIP AND ESA.
PIP waiting for atos assessment.
ESA have send habitual resident test and medical questionnaire few days ago. But I am worried that he don't have enough insurance credits to get this benefit is it any way I can top it out?

Hi Mateusz,

Welcome to Benefits and Work. On the assumption that you are also new to the site, this FAQ should help you find your way around

Welcome to Benefits and Work

If your father does not qualify for contributory ESA then he can apply for income-related ESA. This would look at his finances and be awarded if he (plus any partner who lives with him) has a low income and savings under £6000. I don't think there is any way you could top up his NI contributions on his behalf.

Asset rule for ESA(IR)

If you have further questions, please reply to this post and we will do our best to help. You will find it easily if you bookmark it, or make it a favourite, on your web browser now.

Hi M,

As the claim also involves The Habitual Residence Test, (HRT) and "Right to Reside" (RTR) we can't really offer any advice on that part of the issue.

Have a look at the links below, regarding this :

www.adviceguide.org.uk/england/benefits_...l_residence_test.htm

See also :

www.google.co.uk/search?q=habitual+resid...vyU6S2H9LH8gewv4HYAw

If the HRT or RTR are to be an issue here, you would be best enlisting professional help :

Where to get advice

Or try putting Welfare Rights/Advice for your Town/Postcode into Google.

We can however offer help with generic ESA & DLA/PIP queries.

bro58

Mrs Hurtyback thank you for Your reply it did bring little light to my life as have been depressed that after all this paper work and stress this would be waisted time. I am sure he fits criteria of income related ESA - always some help.

bro58 I have send HRT today based on me (son) as settled family member who is looking after father. I have give them all details now just waiting for decision. It have been already 13 weeks so I can wait few more.


Regards and Thank You for reply.