I just came across this when trying to help sort out this situation.
Please note that the section below refers to
Illness Benefit but I can only assume that the same logic (if SW understands logic) would apply in your case.
BTW could I suggest that you request a
review of your case enclosing your reasons (supported by your doctors certs) for that seven week gap.
An appeal can come later if this and other reviews are turned down.
Best of luck!
Special Categories
Illness Benefit Credits
Where a claimant initially -
- fails to fulfil the conditions for Invalidity Pension (not having the 48 contributions/credits in the last tax year or not regarded as having been incapable for 1 year before the date of claim)
- and is not entitled to be paid Illness Benefit
s/he may submit weekly sickness certificates for the award of Illness Benefit credits.
These credits can be counted for the purposes of the contribution conditions in respect of a renewed Invalidity Pension claim at a later date, and as evidence of incapacity throughout that period.
Illness Benefit credits awarded in this way can be backdated in cases where the claimant can prove that there was good reason why s/he did not make a claim in the first place.
Where a claimant's initial application has been disallowed, but where a later application is likely to succeed (provided that Illness Benefit credits are claimed for a period), Invalidity Awards section will advise the claimant of this by letter.