New Claims: ESA is Closing to New Claimants
Since April 2017, most new claimants are directed to Universal Credit rather than ESA. However, if you are already on ESA (legacy ESA), you can remain on it. Some groups — including those in the Support Group — may still be able to claim new-style ESA alongside UC. This guide covers both legacy ESA and new-style ESA (contribution-based).
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) provides financial support to people who are unable to work because of a long-term health condition or disability. It replaced Incapacity Benefit and Income Support (on grounds of incapacity) in 2008.
There are two types of ESA: Contribution-based (new-style) ESA, which is based on your National Insurance record, and Income-related ESA, which is means-tested and based on your income and savings. Income-related ESA is being replaced by Universal Credit, but many people are still on it.
To receive ESA, you must undergo a Work Capability Assessment (WCA) — a medical assessment that determines whether you are capable of work and, if not, which group you are placed in.
Rates from April 2025
| ESA Group | Weekly Rate | Annual (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment Phase (first 13 weeks) | £90.50 | ~£4,706 |
| Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) | £90.50 | ~£4,706 |
| Support Group | £138.20 | ~£7,186 |
* Rates shown are for single adults. Additional amounts may apply for housing costs, children, or severe disability premium (legacy ESA only).
Understanding the assessment that determines your ESA group
The WCA is a points-based assessment carried out by a healthcare professional on behalf of the DWP. It looks at how your condition affects your ability to perform a range of activities. You need 15 points to be found to have Limited Capability for Work (LCW) and qualify for ESA. Additional criteria determine whether you are placed in the Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) or the Support Group.
Each descriptor carries a point value. Scoring 15 or more points across all activities means you have Limited Capability for Work. Below are the key descriptors — each is worth 15 points if it applies to you.
| Activity | Descriptor (15 points) |
|---|---|
| Mobilising | Cannot mobilise more than 50 metres on level ground without stopping. |
| Standing and sitting | Cannot move between one seated position and another seated position located next to one another without assistance. |
| Reaching | Cannot raise either arm as if to put something in the top pocket of a coat or jacket. |
| Picking up and moving things | Cannot pick up and move a 0.5 litre carton full of liquid. |
| Manual dexterity | Cannot press a button (such as a telephone keypad) with either hand or finger. |
| Making yourself understood | Cannot convey a simple message to strangers. |
| Understanding communication | Cannot understand a simple message, due to sensory impairment. |
| Absence or loss of control of bowel or bladder | At least once a month experiences loss of control leading to extensive evacuation. |
| Consciousness during waking moments | At least once a week has an involuntary episode of lost or altered consciousness. |
| Learning tasks | Cannot learn how to complete a simple task. |
| Awareness of hazard | Reduced awareness of everyday hazards, leading to a significant risk of injury. |
| Initiating and completing personal actions | Cannot initiate or complete at least two sequential personal actions. |
| Coping with change | Cannot cope with any change to the extent that day-to-day life cannot be managed. |
| Getting about | Cannot get to any specified place with which the claimant is unfamiliar without being accompanied. |
| Coping with social engagement | Engagement in social contact is always precluded due to difficulty relating to others. |
| Appropriateness of behaviour | Has, on a daily basis, uncontrollable episodes of aggressive or disinhibited behaviour. |
Higher rate — no work-related requirements
The Support Group provides a higher weekly rate (£138.20 vs £90.50) and means you do not have to attend work-focused interviews or undertake work-related activity. You are placed in the Support Group if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
Important: Many people who should be in the Support Group are incorrectly placed in the WRAG. If you believe you meet Support Group criteria, challenge the decision immediately.
Check Eligibility
Confirm you have sufficient NI contributions (for new-style ESA) or meet the income criteria. Use our eligibility checker for a personalised assessment.
Get a Fit Note
Obtain a fit note (formerly sick note) from your GP. This is required to support your claim and should describe how your condition affects your ability to work.
Make Your Claim
Call the ESA/UC new claims line on 0800 328 5644 or apply online via GOV.UK. You will need your NI number, bank details, and details of your health condition.
Assessment Phase
For the first 13 weeks you receive the assessment rate (£90.50/week). You will be sent an ESA50 questionnaire — complete it carefully and describe your worst days.
Work Capability Assessment
You will be invited to a WCA. Attend if you can — non-attendance often leads to a negative decision. Bring evidence and describe how your condition affects daily functioning.
Decision
After the WCA, the DWP will place you in the WRAG, Support Group, or find you fit for work. If you disagree, you have one month to request a Mandatory Reconsideration.
Mandatory Reconsideration and Tribunal Appeal
Before appealing to a tribunal, you must request a Mandatory Reconsideration (MR) within one month of the decision. Write a detailed letter explaining why the decision is wrong, referencing specific descriptors.
Obtain letters from your GP, consultant, or mental health team that specifically address the WCA descriptors. Generic letters about your diagnosis are less effective than letters describing functional impact.
The WCA is meant to assess how your condition affects you on your worst days, not your best. Be honest about the full range of your experience — many people understate their difficulties.
If you believe you meet Support Group criteria, argue this specifically. The Support Group provides higher payments and exempts you from work-related requirements.
Claimants who attend their tribunal in person have a significantly higher success rate than those who submit paper appeals only. If possible, bring a friend, carer, or welfare rights adviser.
Free welfare rights advisers at Citizens Advice or law centres can dramatically improve your chances. They know the system and can help you present your case effectively.