The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will roll out a major support update in May 2025, offering a new Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) payment of up to £518 per month.
This financial assistance targets individuals struggling to work due to specific long-term health conditions. If your illness or disability limits your ability to work, you could be eligible for this vital support.
This article breaks down the full eligibility criteria, the 23 qualifying conditions, application steps, and additional benefits you may access alongside this payment.
Key Details About DWP’s £518 ESA Payment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to £518 per month |
| Launch Date | May 2025 |
| Eligible Age | 18 or older but below State Pension Age |
| Qualifying Conditions | 23 specific long-term conditions |
| Application Methods | Online, Phone, or In-person |
| Assessment Requirement | Work Capability Assessment (WCA) |
| Extra Support Available | PIP, Universal Credit, Housing Benefit |
What is the Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)?
The Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) provides financial aid to those unable to work due to illness or disability. It also offers personalized work-related support for individuals who may eventually return to employment.
Starting in May 2025, the maximum monthly ESA payment increases to £518, depending on your situation and the Work Capability Assessment outcome.
There are two types of ESA:
- Contribution-Based ESA: For those with sufficient National Insurance contributions.
- Income-Related ESA: For low-income individuals or those with minimal savings.
Who Can Qualify for the £518 Monthly Payment?
To qualify for the new ESA payment, you must:
- Be aged 18 or above and below State Pension age.
- Have a long-term illness or disability that affects work.
- Not be receiving Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from an employer.
- Meet National Insurance contribution rules or pass an income-related means test.
Even unemployed or self-employed individuals may qualify if their health condition limits their ability to work.
List of 23 Conditions That Could Make You Eligible
The DWP identified 23 key physical and mental health conditions:
Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Chronic Back Pain
- Spinal Disorders
Neurological Conditions
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Epilepsy
- Motor Neurone Disease
Respiratory Conditions
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Severe Asthma
- Cystic Fibrosis
Mental Health Conditions
- Severe Depression
- Anxiety Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Cardiovascular Disorders
- Heart Failure
- Stroke Aftereffects
- Hypertension with Organ Damage
Endocrine and Autoimmune Disorders
- Uncontrolled Diabetes with Complications
- Severe Thyroid Disorders
- Lupus and other Advanced Autoimmune Diseases
How to Apply for DWP’s £518 ESA: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- Under State Pension age
- Health condition impacts your ability to work
- Not receiving SSP
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents
- National Insurance Number
- Medical Reports
- GP or healthcare provider information
- Financial documents if needed
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Online: Through the official ESA portal
- Phone: Call 0800 169 0310
- In-person: Visit your nearest Jobcentre Plus
Step 4: Undergo a Work Capability Assessment (WCA)
You must complete an ESA50 questionnaire and attend a medical assessment to determine eligibility.
What Happens After You Apply?
After submitting your application:
- You’ll be placed into either the Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) or the Support Group.
- If accepted into the Support Group, you’ll receive the full £518 per month without any obligation to seek work.
- Payments are usually made every two weeks.
Real-Life Example
Sarah, a 45-year-old former nurse, developed Chronic Fatigue Syndrome after a COVID infection. She successfully applied for ESA with medical evidence from her GP.
Placed into the Support Group, Sarah now receives £518 monthly, plus free NHS prescriptions and housing benefits, allowing her to focus on her recovery without financial worries.
Other Benefits You Could Also Receive
ESA recipients may also be eligible for:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – For daily living and mobility needs
- Universal Credit – If on a low income
- Housing Benefit – Help with rent
- Council Tax Reduction
- Free NHS Prescriptions and Travel Support
Combined, these can provide over £800 per month in support.
The DWP’s £518 monthly ESA payment starting in May 2025 could offer vital financial relief to thousands across the UK dealing with serious health issues.
If you suffer from one of the 23 qualifying conditions or another disabling illness, applying could significantly ease your financial burden while offering additional support through connected benefits.
Get ready with your documentation and apply promptly to secure the assistance you deserve.
FAQs
Can I get ESA if I am self-employed?
Yes, self-employed individuals with a qualifying condition can still claim ESA.
What if my condition is not on the list?
You may still qualify if your condition severely limits your work capacity, as determined by the Work Capability Assessment.
How long does it take to receive the first ESA payment?
Typically, payments begin within a few weeks after the application and assessment process is completed.