Employment and Support Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance is a benefit that you may already be receiving if you have a disability or illness that affects your ability to work.

ESA is available to the employed, self-employed, and unemployed. The money that ESA will provide you with will help you with living costs and support if you are able to get back into work.

If you need to make a new claim for benefits and can't work because of your illness or disability in most circumstances, you will need to apply for "new style" Employment and Support Allowance provided that you are under the State Pension age.

However, you cannot claim ESA if you are claiming Jobseekers Allowance or Statutory Sick Pay.

You may be able to get both "new style" ESA and Universal Credit at the same time, however, Employment Support Allowance will reduce your Universal Credit payment.
However, you can claim income-related ESA if your circumstances change and you are in receipt of the Severe Disability Premium or received the Severe Disability Premium within the last month and you’re still eligible for it.

To find out more detailed information on Employment and Support Allowance, please consult the "Am I Eligible for Employment and Support Allowance" section.