I have a client who is appealing a decision that he failed the Personal Capability Assessment (PCA). He claimed IB but did not satisfy the contribution conditions so was awarded IS with NI credits. After he failed the PCA he appealed and is now in receipt of IS at the reduced rate whilst the appeal is ongoing.
My approach is obviously to challenge the PCA decision, but I am confused as to the benefits of winning.
If he is successful, does it mean that he will get IS at a higher rate than normal IS and continue to be credited with NI credits?
However, if he can't ever satisfy the first contribution condition for IB (for this period) how will credits be of any benefit in the future?
Sorry, I don't come across this very often and can't find any text on it.
Many thanks for nay help you can give.

There are 4 main routes to being entitled to Income Support, ie a single parent, aged over 60 (pension credit), a carer (getting carers Allowance) and being incapable of work.
If you don't satisfy the contibution conditions for Incapacity Benefits you will get Incapacity credits which in turn will make you eligible for Income Support.
So if you win the appeal your client will be entitled to the Incapacity Credits from the date the decision was superceeded by the Decision Maker. This, in turn, will make your client entitled to Income Support for that period. The Rate of Income Support will depend on how long the period of sickness is for. After 12 months they will be entitled to a Disability Premium included in their Applicable Amount.
Shedule 2 para 12(1)(b) of the Income Support regulations.

OK. Thank you very much.

Also, credits will count towards his state retirement pension!