Thousands of UK residents may be missing out on financial support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
If you are under the state pension age and your health condition affects your ability to work, you may be eligible for up to £362 monthly through Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know, including the 23 medical categories, payment rates, and how to apply.
What is ESA and Who Qualifies?
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) helps people who are unable to work due to a long-term illness or disability. As of 2024, ESA payments increased by 6.7%, in line with benefit uplifts to support vulnerable individuals facing rising living costs.
To be eligible for the new-style ESA, you must:
- Be under the state pension age
- Have a disability or health condition that impacts your ability to work
- Have made enough National Insurance contributions in the past 2–3 years
You cannot claim new-style ESA if you’re on Jobseeker’s Allowance or Statutory Sick Pay, though it can be claimed alongside Universal Credit, with corresponding reductions.
DWP’s Full List of 23 Medical Conditions Eligible for ESA
The DWP classifies eligible conditions into the following 23 categories:
| Medical Categories |
|---|
| Certain infectious and parasitic diseases |
| Neoplasms (tumours and cancers) |
| Blood and immune system diseases |
| Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases |
| Mental and behavioural disorders |
| Nervous system diseases |
| Eye and visual conditions |
| Ear and hearing conditions |
| Circulatory system diseases |
| Respiratory system diseases |
| Digestive system diseases |
| Skin and subcutaneous disorders |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases |
| Genito-urinary conditions |
| Pregnancy-related complications |
| Perinatal conditions (originating near birth) |
| Congenital abnormalities and genetic disorders |
| Unclassified symptoms and signs |
| Injury and poisoning cases |
| External causes of health problems |
| Factors influencing health status |
| Special purpose codes |
| Unknown or undiagnosed cases |
If your condition falls within one of these categories, you should consider applying for ESA.
How Much ESA Can You Receive?
ESA is paid every two weeks, and the amount varies depending on age, living situation, and the assessment group you are placed into.
| Category | Weekly Amount | Fortnightly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Single, under 25 | £71.70 | £143.40 |
| Single, 25+ | £90.50 | £181.00 |
| Couple, both over 18 | £142.25 | £284.50 |
| Work-related activity component | £35.95 | £71.90 |
| Support group component | £47.70 | £95.40 |
You may also be eligible for additional premiums, including:
- Enhanced Disability: £20.85 (single) or £29.75 (couple)
- Severe Disability: Up to £163 (higher couple rate)
- Carer’s Premium: £45.60
How to Apply for ESA
You can apply for ESA:
- Online through the DWP’s official website
- By phone at 0800 055 6688
Information needed for application:
- National Insurance number
- Bank account details
- Doctor’s contact information
- Fit note (if off work for more than 7 days)
- Income and employment details
- SSP end date if applicable
After submission, you may receive assessment rate payments:
- Up to £67.20/week (under 25)
- Up to £84.80/week (25 and older)
This lasts for 13 weeks, during which your case will be assessed. You will be placed in either:
- Work-Related Activity Group
- Support Group
If you’re living with a disability or long-term health condition, you may be missing out on vital financial help. The DWP’s ESA benefit, now uplifted due to inflation, offers up to £362 or more monthly depending on your situation.
By checking the 23 qualifying medical conditions and meeting the eligibility criteria, you can access the support you’re entitled to.
Don’t delay—apply today and ease your financial burden during these challenging times.
FAQs
Can I receive ESA while working part-time?
Yes, in some cases, you can work limited hours under “permitted work” rules and still receive ESA.
Is ESA taxable?
The new-style ESA is taxable, while income-related ESA is not.
How often is ESA paid?
ESA is paid every two weeks directly into your bank account.