The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed the 22 medical conditions that make individuals eligible to claim Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)—a crucial benefit designed to support those who are unable to work due to long-term illness or disability.
With ESA payments reaching up to £200 per week, understanding your eligibility and the current rates is essential for those struggling with their health and income.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about ESA, from qualifying conditions to current payment rates.
What Is ESA and Who Can Claim?
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is a DWP-administered benefit for individuals who cannot work, or can only work limited hours, because of a health condition or disability.
ESA provides both financial assistance and employment support services, such as a dedicated work coach, training, and help managing your health at work.
To qualify for ESA, you must:
- Be under the State Pension age
- Have a health condition or disability that limits your ability to work
- Not be receiving Statutory Sick Pay or Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Have paid enough National Insurance contributions in the 2 full tax years before your claim
DWP’s Full List of 22 Eligible ESA Medical Conditions
The latest data, as of November 2024, shows 1,421,898 ESA claims across the UK. Here’s a breakdown of the top 22 medical conditions that make you eligible for ESA:
| Medical Condition | Number of Claimants |
|---|---|
| Mental and Behavioural Disorders | 689,342 |
| Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue | 176,399 |
| Symptoms, Signs, and Abnormal Clinical and Lab Findings (Unspecified) | 127,699 |
| Diseases of the Nervous System | 118,767 |
| Diseases of the Circulatory System | 53,782 |
| Neoplasms (e.g., cancer) | 45,977 |
| Factors Influencing Health Status & Healthcare Contact | 32,265 |
| Injuries, Poisoning, External Consequences | 31,970 |
| Respiratory Diseases | 31,281 |
| Digestive System Diseases | 22,012 |
| Congenital Malformations & Chromosomal Abnormalities | 19,956 |
| Endocrine, Nutritional & Metabolic Diseases | 17,750 |
| Diseases of the Eye and Adnexa | 13,568 |
| Genito-urinary System Diseases | 8,529 |
| Infectious and Parasitic Diseases | 6,834 |
| Ear and Mastoid Process Diseases | 6,779 |
| Codes for Special Purposes | 6,664 |
| Skin and Subcutaneous System Diseases | 5,511 |
| Blood and Immune Mechanism Diseases | 3,106 |
| External Causes of Morbidity and Mortality | 2,922 |
| Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Puerperium | 797 |
| Conditions Originating in the Perinatal Period | 7 |
ESA Rates from April 2025
Below is a summary of the current ESA payment structure:
| Category | Rate (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 |
| Couples (Both Over 18) | £144.65 |
| Enhanced Disability Premium (Single) | £21.20 |
| Enhanced Disability Premium (Couple) | £30.25 |
| Severe Disability (Single) | £82.90 |
| Severe Disability (Couple – Higher) | £165.80 |
| Carer Premium | £46.40 |
| Work-Related Activity Component | £36.55 |
| Support Component | £48.50 |
| Pensioner (Single – Support Component) | £86.55 |
| Pensioner (Couple – Support Component) | £153.45 |
Payments are made every two weeks and are adjusted annually in line with inflation, with the last 1.7% increase in April 2025.
How to Apply for ESA
You can apply for ESA online via the gov.uk website or by calling the Universal Credit helpline if you need additional assistance. Be prepared to submit medical evidence, such as a fit note from your GP, and undergo a Work Capability Assessment.
The ESA program remains a vital financial support system for over a million UK residents living with chronic health conditions and disabilities.
With weekly payments up to £200, this benefit helps ensure those who are most vulnerable receive the help they need.
Understanding whether your condition qualifies you can make a significant difference in your financial well-being, so be sure to review the eligibility list and current payment rates thoroughly.
FAQs
How often are ESA payments made?
ESA payments are made every two weeks directly into your bank or building society account.
Can I work while receiving ESA?
Yes, you can work under certain conditions, known as “permitted work”, and still receive ESA.
What is the Work Capability Assessment?
It is an assessment conducted by the DWP to determine how your condition affects your ability to work, influencing your ESA eligibility and amount.