Thousands of UK households could be eligible for financial support worth up to £368 every month from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), depending on their health condition.
What is the Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)?
The DWP's Employment and Support Allowance is designed to provide support for people below the state pension age whose ability to work is limited by a disability or long-term health issue. The "new style" ESA was first introduced in December 2016. In a significant recent change, all remaining claims under the older, contribution-based system were moved onto this new style ESA on 1 December 2025.
This benefit is paid fortnightly and can be claimed on its own or at the same time as Universal Credit. It is crucial for claimants to understand that if they receive both benefits, their Universal Credit payment will be reduced by the exact amount they get from ESA.
Who Can Apply for New Style ESA?
To make a claim, you must meet several key criteria. You need to be under the current state pension age and have a health condition or disability that affects your capacity for work. Furthermore, you must have a recent work history, either as an employee or self-employed, and have paid enough National Insurance contributions in the relevant tax years.
You cannot claim new style ESA if you are currently receiving Jobseeker's Allowance or Statutory Sick Pay. However, receiving Universal Credit does not disqualify you, though it will affect your total payment as noted.
The 23 Condition Categories That Could Qualify You
The DWP uses a broad classification system to assess eligibility. Your specific diagnosis would fall under one of these 23 overarching categories, which include:
- Mental and behavioural disorders
- Diseases of the nervous system
- Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue
- Diseases of the circulatory or respiratory system
- Endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases
- Certain infectious diseases and neoplasms
The full list also covers conditions related to pregnancy and childbirth, congenital malformations, injuries and poisonings, and symptoms where a formal diagnosis may not yet be confirmed. This wide scope means many individuals with varying long-term health challenges may be eligible for support.
If you believe your condition significantly impacts your ability to seek or maintain employment, it is worth investigating your eligibility for this vital financial support. The application process is handled directly by the DWP, and successful claims can provide a crucial monthly income for those facing health-related barriers to work.
