Quote:
Originally Posted by jfman
ESA is based on contributions for 12 months after which it’s means tested. There’s no reason to continue to pay means tested benefits in this country for anyone resident overseas.
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Incorrect, Contribution Based ESA (now called New Style ESA) can be paid indefinitely to some claimants. Income Based ESA is gradually being phased out and claimants moved over to Universal Credit (UC). For those where ESA does stop, UC can be paid whilst abroad for between 1 and 6 months.
Payment of means tested benefits whilst abroad has never been available on a permanent basis as they are funded from general taxation. It's believed that the taxpayer should not have to fund people who don't live in this country. Whilst I agree with this, it's annoying that EU migrants (usually Poles in my experience) can come here and claim Child Benefit etc for their offspring back home.