Understanding Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

ESA is a benefit for people whose health makes it difficult or impossible to work. It provides:

• Money to help with living costs if you’re not working.
• Support to return to work if you’re able to in the future.

ESA is available whether you are unemployed, self-employed, or employed but off sick.

You may be eligible for ESA if:

• You have a disability or health condition that limits your ability to work.
• You’re aged 16 or over.
• You’re under State Pension age.
• Your Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) has ended (or you’re not entitled to it).

There are two main types of ESA:

1. New Style ESA, for those who’ve paid enough National Insurance contributions, usually in the last 2 to 3 years.
2. Income-related ESA, this is being replaced by Universal Credit, so new claims for income-related ESA are no longer accepted.

When you apply, you may have to undergo a Work Capability Assessment to determine how your condition affects you. Based on the outcome, you may be placed into one of two groups:

• Work-Related Activity Group, you’re expected to prepare for work in the future.
• Support Group, your condition severely limits your ability to work; you’re not expected to look for work.

Your ESA payments and ongoing requirements depend on which group you’re placed in.

Yes, you may be able to do some types of “permitted work”, such as:

• Working fewer than 16 hours per week.
• Earning under a set weekly amount (the limit varies by year).

This can help ease you back into employment without affecting your entitlement.

You can apply for ESA:

• Online, through the GOV.UK ESA service.
• By phone is also possible if you need support due to a disability or health condition.

You’ll need to provide medical evidence, such as a fit note (also called a sick note), and may be required to attend a health assessment.

If you’re not sure whether to apply for ESA or Universal Credit, or if you need help with the application process, you can contact:

• Jobcentre Plus.
• Citizens Advice.
• A local welfare rights adviser.

If you’re living with a health condition or disability, you may qualify for free energy efficiency improvements through ECO4 or Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS).

These government-backed programmes can provide:

• Free boiler upgrades.
• Insulation for walls and lofts.
• Solar panels and other heating upgrades.

They’re designed to help households stay warm, reduce bills, and live more comfortably.

Check your eligibility today, it’s quick, free, and could make a real difference to your daily comfort.

Useful Resources:

• Employment and Support Allowance: What You’ll Get
• Employment and Support Allowance: How To Claim
• Universal Credit
• Contact JobCentre Plus
• Contact Citizens Advice

Cost of Living Support Available:

• Household Support Fund (England)
• Cost of Living Payments
• Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI)
• Mortgage Guarantee Scheme
• Council Tax Reduction

ECO4 Support Available:

• Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, Energy Company Obligation
• Ofgem Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Guidance: Delivery V1.1
• Ofgem Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
• UK Government, Help from your energy supplier: the Energy Company Obligation
• Which? Energy Company Obligation (ECO)

Other Support Available:

• Household Support Fund
• Cold Weather Payment
• Cost of Living
• Fuel Vouchers