Employment and Support Allowance

There are basic conditions that must be satisfied for a person to claim ESA.

There are two forms of ESA, Income based and Contributions based.

During the 13 week assessment phase a person is paid the basic rate of ESA, during which claimants undergo a work capability assessment and a work focused interview. The only exception to this is for those classed as terminally ill. They will receive the basic rate plus usually, the support component.

The ESA work capability assessment (WCA) is more complex than that currently used for incapacity benefit. The assessment is carried out by a health care professional working on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

You are expected to attend an initial 'work-focused interview', unless you are terminally ill. This will normally take place during the 8th week of your ESA claim.

Subject to satisfying an assessment of "limited capability for work", customers you will then progress onto the main phase of the benefit.

If it is decided that you do not have a limited capability for work-related activity, you will be placed in the work-related activity group of claimants.

If it is decided that you have a limited capability for work-related activity, you will be placed in the support group of claimants.

The amount that successful claimants will receive.

If you are already receiving incapacity benefit (IB) or income support (IS) paid on the grounds of incapacity you will continue to receive those benefits, rather than ESA, for the time being.

Both the initial work-focused interview and the follow-up interviews are mandatory. If you fail to either attend or participate in a work-focused interview, your ESA may be paid at a reduced rate or 'sanctioned'.