Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is a UK financial support scheme designed for individuals who are unable to work due to illness or disability. ESA offers financial help to those who are currently employed, unemployed, or self-employed but have limited capability for work because of their health condition or disability.
Understanding ESA
ESA is intended to support individuals who are affected by a health condition or disability that limits their ability to work. It provides them with financial support and personalised help to get back into work if and when they are able.
Types of ESA
There are two main types of ESA:
- Contributory/New Style ESA: Based on your National Insurance contributions.
- Income-related ESA: Based on your income and savings.
Eligibility for ESA
To qualify for ESA, you must:
- Have a health condition or disability that affects your ability to work.
- Be aged 16 and over and under State Pension age.
- Not be receiving Statutory Sick Pay or Statutory Maternity Pay and not be back at work.
- Be resident in the UK.
How to Claim ESA
- Contact Jobcentre Plus: To start your claim, you'll need to contact Jobcentre Plus. They will ask for basic information and then send you a claim form.
- Submit Medical Evidence: You'll need to provide medical evidence from your doctor, such as a 'fit note' (previously known as a 'sick note').
- Fill Out the ESA50 Form: This form asks about how your condition affects your ability to complete everyday tasks.
- Attend a Work Capability Assessment: You may be asked to attend an assessment to determine how your condition affects your ability to work.
- Receive Your Decision: After your assessment, you'll be placed in one of two groups if you're eligible for ESA: the work-related activity group (where you'll have regular interviews with an adviser) or the support group (where you don't have to attend interviews).