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 01 December 2025
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 don't get Statutory Sick Pay.
Applies to: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Age rules: You must be 16 or over and under State Pension age.
Type of benefit: Non means-tested
Taxable: Yes
Administered by: Jobcentre Plus, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
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