SPM10340 - Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) - Forms and Guidance: BF220, BF220A, BF220B, BF220C and ESA equivalents - Linking Letters
From 31 January 2011, the abolition of the linking rules for Incapacity Benefit (IB) means that there is no longer a requirement for employers to accept linking letters for employees who have previously been in receipt of IB, see SPM10555
With the introduction of ESA from 27 October 2008, the 8 week link to benefit was extended to 12 weeks. The linking forms were also changed.
| ESA220 | Standard 12 week letter |
| ESA220A | 12 week linking. May qualify as a W to W beneficiary |
| ESA220B | 104 week linking. Does qualify as a W to W beneficiary |
| ESA220C | 12 week linking letter. Not entitled to ESA or SDA |
Up to 27 October 2008, these forms were issued by Jobcentre Plus or Jobs and Benefits office if an employee has been claiming certain benefits.
The version of the form issued to the employee by the Jobcentre Plus or, in Northern Ireland, the Jobs and Benefits office to give to their employer will depend on the benefit claimed or paid.
| BF220 | Standard 8 week letter |
| BF220A | 8 week linking. May qualify as a Welfare to Work beneficiary |
| BF220B | 104 week linking Does qualify as a Welfare to Work beneficiary (52 weeks up to 8 October 2006) |
| BF220C | 8 week linking letter. Not entitled to ESA or SDA |
For more information about effect of linking on entitlement to SSP, see SPM10135.
