The Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is a financial benefit from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), designed to support individuals with health conditions or disabilities that limit their ability to work.
It provides both financial assistance and tailored employment support, helping claimants manage their condition while exploring opportunities to return to work if possible.
In August 2025, the DWP confirmed a full list of 22 medical conditions that may qualify you for ESA, with eligible individuals able to receive up to £200 per week depending on their circumstances. This update comes alongside a 1.7% ESA rate increase in April 2025, in line with inflation.
What is ESA and Who Can Claim It?
ESA offers both financial support and guidance through a work coach, along with access to training and condition management programs.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be under State Pension age
- Have a health condition or disability that limits your ability to work
- Not be claiming Statutory Sick Pay or Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Have paid enough National Insurance contributions in the two full tax years before your claim year
DWP’s 22 Medical Conditions Eligible for ESA
According to the latest figures, there are 1,421,898 ESA claimants in the UK. The most common qualifying category is mental and behavioural disorders, affecting over 689,000 claimants.
Full List of Conditions:
| Medical Condition | Number of Cases |
|---|---|
| Mental & Behavioural Disorders | 689,342 |
| Musculoskeletal & Connective Tissue Diseases | 176,399 |
| Unclassified Clinical & Lab Findings | 127,699 |
| Nervous System Diseases | 118,767 |
| Circulatory System Diseases | 53,782 |
| Neoplasms (Tumours) | 45,977 |
| Health Status & Service Contact Factors | 32,265 |
| Injury & Poisoning Cases | 31,970 |
| Respiratory System Diseases | 31,281 |
| Digestive System Diseases | 22,012 |
| Congenital & Chromosomal Abnormalities | 19,956 |
| Endocrine, Nutritional & Metabolic Disorders | 17,750 |
| Eye & Adnexa Diseases | 13,568 |
| Genito-urinary System Diseases | 8,529 |
| Infectious & Parasitic Diseases | 6,834 |
| Ear & Mastoid Diseases | 6,779 |
| Special Purpose Codes | 6,664 |
| Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue Diseases | 5,511 |
| Blood & Immune System Disorders | 3,106 |
| External Causes of Morbidity | 2,922 |
| Pregnancy & Childbirth Related | 797 |
| Perinatal Period Conditions | 7 |
ESA Rates from April 2025
ESA payments vary depending on age, marital status, and disability premiums.
Personal Allowances (Weekly):
- Single under 25: £72.90
- Single 25 or over: £92.05
- Lone parent under 18: £72.90
- Lone parent 18 or over: £92.05
- Couple (both over 18): £144.65
Premiums:
- Enhanced Disability (single): £21.20
- Enhanced Disability (couple): £30.25
- Severe Disability (single): £82.90
- Severe Disability (couple higher rate): £165.80
- Carer: £46.40
Components:
- Work-Related Activity: £36.55
- Support: £48.50
ESA is paid every two weeks directly into your bank account.
How to Claim ESA
The DWP automatically assesses your eligibility based on your medical evidence and work capability assessment. You will typically need:
- A fit note from your GP
- National Insurance number
- Proof of income and savings
Claims can be made online, by phone, or by post.
Why This Matters
With the cost of living rising, ESA provides a vital financial safety net for those unable to work due to serious health conditions. The updated list of 22 qualifying conditions ensures clarity for those considering a claim in 2025.
The DWP’s ESA program is a lifeline for over 1.4 million people in the UK, offering financial assistance and employment support to those facing health challenges. With up to £200 per week available and a clear list of qualifying conditions, now is the time to check if you meet the criteria.
If you think you qualify, ensure you have the necessary documents ready and start your claim as soon as possible to avoid delays.
FAQs
How often is ESA paid?
ESA is paid every two weeks directly to your bank account.
Do I need to reapply each year?
No, but your eligibility will be periodically reviewed by the DWP through medical assessments.
Can I receive ESA if I have savings?
Yes, but your savings and income may affect the amount you receive.