Employment and Support Allowance: applying if you cannot work due to injury

Updated: 16 Oct, 2025
By Chris Salmon

If you are unable to work due to a workplace injury or illness, you may be entitled to Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). ESA is designed to provide financial support if you are ill or disabled, and personalised help so that you can work again if you are able.

At a glance

  • ESA provides financial support if you cannot work due to illness or injury.
  • You may also get personalised help to return to work in the future.
  • There are two types of ESA: contributory (new style) and income-related (now replaced by Universal Credit).
  • A Work Capability Assessment will determine how your injury affects your ability to work.

Types of ESA

There are two main types of ESA, depending on your circumstances:

  • New Style ESA: This is based on your National Insurance contributions in the last two to three years. It can be claimed alongside Universal Credit.
  • Income-related ESA: This has been replaced by Universal Credit for most new claims. However, some people may still receive it if they are already on it.

Further details are available on the UK Government website.

Check if you qualify for ESA. Apply early, keep doctor's notes and copies of forms and decisions. Keeping copies of GP notes and work capability assessments will make the benefits claim process easier.

Chris Salmon

Commercial Director
Work Accident Advice Centre

Eligibility for ESA

You may qualify for ESA if:

  • You are under State Pension age.
  • Your ability to work is limited by your injury or illness.
  • You are not receiving Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), or your SSP has ended.

Your eligibility and entitlement will depend on your National Insurance record and your current financial circumstances.

The application process

The process of applying for ESA usually involves the following steps:

  1. Make a claim: You can apply online or by phone through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
  2. Submit a fit note: Your GP or hospital doctor will need to provide a medical certificate (fit note) to confirm you are unable to work.
  3. Work Capability Assessment: You will usually be asked to complete a questionnaire about how your condition affects your daily activities. You may also need to attend a medical assessment.
  4. DWP decision: Based on your assessment, you will be placed into one of two groups: the Work-Related Activity Group or the Support Group.

More information about the assessment process is provided by Citizens Advice.

ESA rates

The amount you receive depends on your circumstances and which group you are placed in:

  • Work-Related Activity Group: You will receive financial support, and you may be asked to attend interviews or prepare for future work.
  • Support Group: You will receive a higher rate of ESA and will not be required to look for work.

Payments are usually made every two weeks.

ESA and other benefits

You may be able to claim ESA alongside other benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Universal Credit. Whether you can do so will depend on your individual circumstances, income, and savings.

If your claim is refused

If your ESA claim is rejected, you can request a mandatory reconsideration. If you are still unhappy with the outcome, you may appeal to an independent tribunal. Seeking advice from a welfare rights adviser or Citizens Advice can be very helpful at this stage.

Key takeaways

  • ESA provides financial support if you are unable to work because of an injury or illness.
  • Eligibility depends on your health, age, and National Insurance contributions.
  • A Work Capability Assessment will decide the level of support you receive.
  • You can appeal if your claim is refused.

Call now for free specialist advice

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  • Advice that's right for your case
  • Check if you can claim
  • No Win, No Fee explained clearly

If you decide to make a compensation claim, we'll connect you with the right solicitor.

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About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed October 2025 by Chris Salmon