Sharon Cyrus
If you have a disability that impacts your ability to work, you may qualify for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), which offers financial assistance of up to £140 per week.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) administers this benefit, which provides support for living costs and additional help for individuals seeking to return to work.
Eligibility for ESA
One of the key advantages of ESA is that it can be claimed regardless of your work status—whether you are unemployed, employed, or self-employed. You don’t need to wait for your claim to be approved to start receiving benefits.
Instead, you will be granted an assessment rate for up to 13 weeks as your application is reviewed. The assessment rate is £72.90 per week for individuals under 25 and £92.05 per week for those aged 25 and above.
ESA Payment Amounts
Once your claim is processed, the amount you could receive depends on the group you are placed in. If you’re in the work-related activity group, you could receive up to £92.05 per week.
On the other hand, if you are in the support group, which includes individuals who are unable to work, you may be eligible for up to £140.55 per week, according to reports from The Express.
If your application takes longer than 13 weeks to process, you will continue to receive the standard assessment rate until a final decision is made or your ESA entitlement ends. In the case that you’re owed any back payments, your ESA may be backdated.
ESA and Working
You can still work while receiving ESA, but there are limits on how much you can work and earn. You are allowed to work up to 16 hours a week and earn no more than £195.50 per week.
Voluntary work doesn’t count towards the total hours worked, but you still need to report it when making your claim.
How to Apply for ESA
To apply for ESA, you can submit your application through the GOV.UK website. Before you begin the application, ensure you have the following details ready:
- Income details, if you’re employed
- The date your Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) ends, if you’re currently claiming it
- Your bank or building society account number and sort code (you can use a family member’s or friend’s account if you don’t have one)
- A fit note (also known as a ‘sick note’ or ‘statement of fitness for work’) if you’ve been unable to work for over 7 days due to a health condition or disability
- Your doctor’s contact information (name, address, and phone number)
- Your National Insurance number
Employment and Support Allowance provides critical financial support for individuals living with disabilities, helping to cover living costs while assisting with the transition back to work.
With ESA, you can continue working within certain limits, and your payments may be backdated if there’s a delay in processing your claim. This benefit is designed to provide flexibility, financial security, and resources for those in need.
FAQs
Can I work while receiving ESA?
Yes, you can work while receiving ESA, as long as you work less than 16 hours a week and earn no more than £195.50 per week.
How long will I receive the assessment rate?
You will receive the assessment rate for up to 13 weeks while your ESA claim is being reviewed.
Is my ESA backdated if it takes too long to process?
Yes, if your claim takes longer than 13 weeks to process, your ESA may be backdated, and any owed payments will be given to you.