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17 December, 2021 Open access

DWP suspends requirement to submit medical evidence after seven days of sickness or disability for universal credit and ESA

Suspension to remain in place until 27 January 2022 to give GPs more time to work on coronavirus vaccination boosters

The DWP has confirmed that it is temporarily suspending the requirement to submit medical evidence after seven days of sickness or disability for universal credit and employment and support allowance (ESA).

In an update to guidance for claimants who are ill or have a health condition or disability that limits their ability to work, the DWP says that it has made a temporary change to medical evidence requirements, advising claimants that -

‘You do not have to provide a fit note (sick note) for ESA / universal credit until 27 January 2022. This will not affect your claim.

There is no need to ask your GP for a fit note before then. This is to give GPs more time to work on the coronavirus vaccination boosters.

If you are concerned about your health condition, you should continue to see your GP.’

NB - a temporary suspension of fit note requirements has also been brought into force today for statutory sick pay by SI.No.1453/2021.

The updated guidance on universal credit and new-style ESA is available from gov.uk