If you live with a disability or long-term health condition that limits your ability to work, you may qualify for additional financial help through the UK Government.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides Employment Support Allowance (ESA), which offers financial assistance to cover basic living costs or helps support individuals in returning to employment. ESA is available whether you are employed, self-employed, or unemployed.
This guide explains who qualifies, how much you could receive in 2025, and how to apply.
Who Can Claim ESA?
You may apply for new-style ESA if:
- You are below the state pension age.
- You have a disability or health condition that impacts your ability to work.
- You have been employed or self-employed and paid sufficient National Insurance contributions during the past two to three years.
Restrictions
- You cannot claim new-style ESA if you are already receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance or Statutory Sick Pay.
- You may qualify alongside Universal Credit, but the Universal Credit amount is reduced by your ESA entitlement.
The DWP lists 23 categories of health conditions that may qualify, including:
- Infectious diseases and neoplasms
- Blood, immune system, and metabolic disorders
- Mental and behavioural conditions
- Nervous system, eye, and ear diseases
- Circulatory, respiratory, digestive, and skin conditions
- Musculoskeletal and genito-urinary diseases
- Pregnancy-related conditions and perinatal issues
- Congenital abnormalities and chromosomal disorders
- Injuries, poisoning, and external causes
- Factors influencing health status
- Unclassified or unknown medical issues
ESA Payment Rates in 2025
Following a 6.7% increase in April 2025, ESA rates have risen compared to the previous year. Payments are made fortnightly, and the amount depends on your personal circumstances.
Weekly ESA Rates
| Category | 2024 Rate | 2025 Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Single, under 25 | £67.20 | £71.70 |
| Single, 25+ | £84.80 | £90.50 |
| Lone parent, under 18 | £67.20 | £71.70 |
| Lone parent, 18+ | £80.50 | £90.50 |
| Couple, both under 18 | £67.20 | £71.70 |
| Couple, under 18 with child | £101.50 | £108.30 |
| Couple, both over 18 | £133.30 | £142.25 |
| Enhanced disability, single | £19.55 | £20.85 |
| Enhanced disability, couple | £27.90 | £29.75 |
| Severe disability, single | £76.40 | £81.50 |
| Severe disability, couple (higher) | £152.80 | £163.00 |
| Carer | £42.75 | £45.60 |
| Work-related activity component | £33.70 | £35.95 |
| Support group component | £44.70 | £47.70 |
Example: A single person over 25 will now receive £90.50 per week, which equals £181 every two weeks.
How to Apply for ESA
You can apply in two ways:
- Online application via the UK Government website.
- By phone at 0800 055 6688.
Once your application is processed, you’ll be assessed and placed either in the Work-Related Activity Group or the Support Group, depending on the severity of your condition.
The Employment Support Allowance (ESA) provides crucial financial assistance to those unable to work due to a disability or health condition. With the 2025 increase in weekly rates, eligible claimants can access higher levels of support.
Understanding the eligibility requirements, categories of qualifying conditions, and updated payment amounts ensures you can make the most of this essential benefit.
FAQs
Yes, but your Universal Credit will be reduced by the ESA amount you receive.
ESA is paid every two weeks, directly into your bank account.
The Work-Related Activity Group requires preparation for employment, while the Support Group is for individuals with more severe limitations.
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