Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) - What is Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)?
Employment and Support Allowance is money for people who have illnesses or disabilities that make it hard for them to work
- Last reviewed 31 January 2023
What is Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)?
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is money for people who have limited capability for work because of their sickness or disability but do not get Statutory Sick Pay.
There are two types:
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- contributory/New Style Employment and Support Allowance
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance is being replaced by Universal Credit. Please go to the Can I get Employment and Support Allowance? page of this guide for information on who can still claim.
Applies to: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Age rules: You must be 16 or over and under State Pension age.
Type of benefit:
Income-related ESA is a Eligibility depends on the amount of income and capital you have. See full definition .
Contributory ESA is a Benefits you can get no matter what your income and savings are. See full definition .
Taxable:
- Income-related ESA is not taxable
- Contributory ESA is taxable
Administered by: Jobcentre Plus, Department for Work and Pensions
Was this page helpful?
Tell us the problem
*Required
Thank you
Thank you for your feedback. If you would like to tell us more, please visit our contact us page.
Check benefit entitlement
Find out what means-tested benefits you might be entitled to, including tax credits.
Grants Search
Search our database of grant-giving organisations.
Find an adviser
Search for advice and support services near you.