The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a new Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) payment, providing up to £518 per month to individuals with specific health conditions. This financial aid is designed to support those whose disabilities or illnesses prevent them from working.
If you or someone you know has one of the 23 qualifying conditions, this guide will help you know eligibility, the application process, and additional benefits you might receive.
Overview
The DWP’s £518 ESA payment aims to assist individuals with long-term health conditions by providing financial relief and employment support. Whether you have a neurological disorder, cardiovascular disease, or mental health condition, this scheme could be a lifeline.
Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A financial support payment under ESA for individuals with specific health conditions. |
| Amount | Up to £518 per month. |
| Eligibility | People with one of the 23 qualifying health conditions that affect their ability to work. |
| Application Process | Online via GOV.UK, by phone, or at a local Jobcentre Plus. |
| Start Date | Payments are expected to roll out in the coming months. |
| Additional Benefits | May include PIP, Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, and free NHS prescriptions. |
ESA Payment
The Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is a government welfare benefit designed for individuals who cannot work due to a health condition or disability. This financial aid helps cover living expenses, medical costs, and work-related challenges.
Types
- Contribution-based ESA – Available to individuals who have paid enough National Insurance (NI) contributions in recent years.
- Income-related ESA – For those with low income and savings below £16,000.
Medical Conditions
To be eligible for the £518 ESA payment, you must undergo a medical assessment proving that your condition limits your ability to work. The 23 recognized conditions include:
Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Arthritis (Rheumatoid & Osteoarthritis)
- Chronic Back Pain & Spinal Disorders
Neurological Conditions
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Epilepsy
- Motor Neurone Disease
Respiratory Conditions
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Severe Asthma
- Cystic Fibrosis
Mental Health Conditions
- Severe Depression & Anxiety Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Cardiovascular & Circulatory Disorders
- Heart Failure
- Stroke Aftereffects
- Hypertension with Organ Damage
Endocrine Disorders
- Uncontrolled Diabetes with Complications
- Severe Thyroid Disorders
Cancer & Autoimmune Diseases
- Certain Advanced-Stage Cancers
- Lupus & Other Severe Autoimmune Disorders
Even if your condition isn’t listed, you may still qualify under discretionary assessments based on medical evidence.
How to Apply
Applying for ESA is a straightforward process, but you need to provide medical evidence to support your claim.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Must be 18 or older and below State Pension age.
- Cannot be receiving Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from an employer.
Gather Required Documents
- Medical reports from your GP or specialist.
- National Insurance (NI) number.
- Proof of income (for income-related ESA).
Apply Online
- Online: Visit the official GOV.UK ESA page.
- Phone: Call 0800 169 0310 (DWP ESA helpline).
- In-Person: Visit your nearest Jobcentre Plus.
Work Capability Assessment (WCA)
- You’ll complete a questionnaire about your condition.
- A medical assessment (either face-to-face or over the phone) will be conducted.
- If approved, ESA payments will be transferred to your bank account.
Benefits
If you are eligible for ESA, you may also qualify for other DWP benefits, including:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – For individuals needing help with daily tasks.
- Universal Credit (UC) – For those on a low income.
- Housing Benefit – Helps cover rent costs.
- Council Tax Reduction – For those with limited income.
- Free NHS Prescriptions & Travel Discounts – Available for eligible claimants.
Each benefit has its own eligibility criteria, so checking the DWP website for more details is advised.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £518 ESA payment?
Individuals with one of the 23 recognized health conditions that impact their ability to work.
How do I apply for ESA?
You can apply online via GOV.UK, by phone, or at your local Jobcentre Plus.
Do I need a medical assessment for ESA?
Yes, you must undergo a Work Capability Assessment (WCA) to determine eligibility.
Can I receive other benefits with ESA?
Yes, you may also qualify for PIP, Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, and more.
When will the ESA payments start?
Payments are expected to roll out in the coming months, according to the DWP.
