The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is reminding individuals with certain health conditions that they may be eligible for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), a benefit designed to assist those who are unable to work due to illness or disability. Despite approximately 1.7 million people currently receiving ESA, many more may qualify without realizing it.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to ESA, its eligibility criteria, payment details, and how to apply.
What is Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)?
ESA is a government benefit aimed at providing financial support to individuals with disabilities or health conditions that make it difficult for them to work. The allowance helps cover the additional costs of living for those who are either unable to work or require assistance with work-related activities.
Types of ESA:
- New-Style ESA: This is for individuals who have made National Insurance contributions over the past 2-3 years.
- Income-Related ESA: Aimed at those with limited or no income, though it is gradually being replaced by Universal Credit.
ESA Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for new-style ESA, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be under the state pension age.
- Have a disability or health condition that restricts their ability to work.
- Have previously been employed or self-employed and made enough National Insurance contributions in the last two to three years.
It’s important to note that you cannot claim new-style ESA if you are already receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance or statutory sick pay (SSP). However, ESA can be claimed alongside Universal Credit, although the ESA payment will be deducted from your Universal Credit.
ESA Payment Amounts
- Assessment Phase (First 13 Weeks)
While your claim is being processed, you’ll receive the assessment rate, which is:- Up to £67.20 per week for those under 25
- Up to £84.80 per week for those 25 or older
- Main Phase (After Assessment)
After the assessment, you’ll be placed in one of two groups:- Work-Related Activity Group: Up to £84.80 per week
- Support Group: Up to £129.50 per week (approximately £518 per month)
Additional Premiums
Certain individuals may be eligible for additional premiums if they meet specific criteria:
- Enhanced Disability Premium: For those in the support group receiving income-related ESA.
- Severe Disability Premium: For individuals with more severe health conditions.
23 Medical Conditions That May Qualify You for ESA
The DWP has identified 23 categories of health conditions that could make individuals eligible for ESA. These include:
- Infectious and parasitic diseases
- Cancer (neoplasms)
- Blood and immune system diseases
- Endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic disorders
- Mental and behavioral disorders
- Nervous system conditions
- Eye and adnexa diseases
- Ear and mastoid process diseases
- Circulatory system disorders
- Respiratory system conditions
- Digestive system diseases
- Skin and subcutaneous system disorders
- Musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases
- Genitourinary system disorders
- Pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions
- Conditions from the perinatal period
- Congenital malformations and chromosomal abnormalities
- Unclassified symptoms, signs, and clinical findings
- Injuries, poisoning, and external causes
- External factors influencing morbidity and mortality
- Special purpose codes
- Conditions not diagnosed in the system
- Unknown conditions
How to Apply for ESA
Applications for ESA can be made online through the government website or by calling 0800 055 6688.
Information You’ll Need to Apply:
- National Insurance number
- Bank account details (or those of a friend or family member if you don’t have one)
- Your doctor’s contact information
- A sick note (fit note) if you’ve been unable to work for more than 7 consecutive days
- Details of your income if you’re employed
- The date your statutory sick pay ends, if applicable
After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll be contacted with instructions for providing any additional evidence. The assessment period typically takes 13 weeks, during which you’ll receive the assessment rate.
Post-Assessment: What Happens Next?
Once your assessment is complete, you will be placed in one of the following groups:
- Work-Related Activity Group: You’ll need to engage in activities designed to help you prepare for returning to work.
- Support Group: No work-related activities are required, and you may qualify for further financial support, such as enhanced disability premiums.
Important Considerations:
- ESA and Universal Credit: If you qualify for both, your Universal Credit payment will be reduced by the amount you receive through ESA.
- Additional Support: Those in the support group may qualify for additional premiums, such as the enhanced disability premium.
Given that 23 different medical conditions could potentially qualify individuals for ESA, many may be missing out on the financial assistance they are entitled to. If you suffer from a long-term health condition or disability, it’s worth exploring your eligibility and applying for this vital support.
