What does this mean?

[one_step_closer]

I have been off sick from work since September and my manager has emailed me saying that as of the 24th of March I will be out of pay and will have to approach the benefits office. What does this mean? What benefits will I need to ask for? Thanks.

[CrazyHayley]

Once I had been signed off sick for 6months my work no longer had to pay me statatory sick pay and I was officially off their books and so could seek benefits. As I don't know the extent of what is wrong with you I can't say for certain, but from my experience you would want to apply for incapacity benefit, though if your problems are severe enough you may be entitled to disability living allowance with income support. The best thing to do if you're able to, is to go into your local job centre plus and explain the situation to them and they will be able to tell you which benefits you're entitled to in your circumstances and they'll give you the appropriate forms to fill out. Good Luck! Its a bit of a headache at first, but better to do it sooner than later and it'll all work out ok.

[Becca]

I wanted to add that incapacity benefit doesn't exist for new claimants anymore - now it's employment support allowance (esa). They don't tend to give forms anymore you are given a telephone number to ring and it is filled in over the phone.

Do try your local citizens advice for help with applying for benefits.

Good luck