The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a new £518 monthly Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) payment to assist individuals with serious health conditions or disabilities that limit their ability to work.
This financial aid aims to provide essential support to those affected by conditions such as arthritis, epilepsy, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders.
If you or someone you know suffers from a qualifying condition, understanding eligibility criteria, application steps, and additional benefits is crucial to securing this financial assistance.
Payments
DWP £518 ESA Payment Breakdown
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A new ESA payment for individuals with specific health conditions. |
| How much can you get? | Up to £518 per month, based on eligibility and assessment. |
| Who qualifies? | People diagnosed with one of the 23 recognized health conditions that limit their ability to work. |
| How to apply? | Online, by phone, or at a Jobcentre Plus. |
| When does it start? | Payments will roll out in the coming months. |
| Key benefits | Financial support, employment assistance, and access to additional benefits. |
ESA
The Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is a government welfare program that supports individuals unable to work due to long-term illness or disability.
The latest update includes an increased payment of £518 per month for those who meet the qualifying criteria.
ESA is available in two forms:
- Contribution-Based ESA – For individuals who have paid sufficient National Insurance (NI) contributions.
- Income-Related ESA – For individuals on a low income or with savings below £16,000.
23 Health Conditions That Qualify for the £518 DWP Payment
To qualify for ESA, applicants must undergo a Work Capability Assessment (WCA) to demonstrate how their condition affects their ability to work. The 23 recognized conditions include:
1. Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Arthritis (Rheumatoid & Osteoarthritis)
- Chronic Back Pain and Spinal Disorders
2. Neurological Conditions
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Epilepsy
- Motor Neurone Disease
3. Respiratory Conditions
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Severe Asthma
- Cystic Fibrosis
4. Mental Health Conditions
- Severe Depression and Anxiety Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
5. Cardiovascular and Circulatory Disorders
- Heart Failure
- Stroke Aftereffects
- Hypertension with Organ Damage
6. Endocrine Disorders
- Uncontrolled Diabetes with Complications
- Severe Thyroid Disorders
7. Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases
- Certain Advanced-Stage Cancers
- Lupus and Other Severe Autoimmune Disorders
Other Conditions
Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify if medical evidence proves it significantly affects your ability to work.
Eligibility
To qualify for the DWP’s £518 ESA payment, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Health Condition
Your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working. A Work Capability Assessment (WCA) will determine eligibility.
2. Age Requirement
You must be 18 or older and below State Pension age.
3. Employment Status
- You must not be receiving Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from an employer.
- You can apply if self-employed, unemployed, or employed but unable to work.
4. Financial Requirements
- To qualify for Contribution-Based ESA, you must have paid enough National Insurance contributions.
- To qualify for Income-Related ESA, you must have savings below £16,000.
Application
How to Apply for the DWP’s £518 Payment
Applying for ESA is straightforward, but medical evidence is required.
| Application Method | How to Apply |
|---|---|
| Online | Apply via the GOV.UK ESA application portal |
| Phone | Call 0800 169 0310 (DWP ESA helpline) |
| In-Person | Visit your local Jobcentre Plus |
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Ensure you have a qualifying medical condition.
- Verify you are 18+ and under State Pension age.
- Confirm you are not receiving SSP from an employer.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Medical Reports from your GP or consultant.
- National Insurance Number.
- Proof of Income (for Income-Related ESA).
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Apply online, by phone, or in-person at a Jobcentre Plus.
Step 4: Undergo a Work Capability Assessment (WCA)
- You’ll complete a medical questionnaire and attend a face-to-face, telephone, or video assessment.
- If approved, payments will be sent directly to your bank account.
Additional Benefits You Can Claim Alongside ESA
If you qualify for ESA, you may also be eligible for additional benefits, including:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – For extra daily living and mobility support.
- Universal Credit (UC) – If you’re on a low income.
- Housing Benefit – To help with rent costs.
- Council Tax Reduction – For low-income individuals.
- Free NHS Prescriptions & Travel Discounts – Available for certain ESA claimants.
Each benefit has its own criteria, so checking eligibility on GOV.UK is advised.
The DWP’s £518 ESA payment is a lifeline for individuals with long-term health conditions. If you meet the criteria, applying as soon as possible ensures you receive the financial support you deserve.
Visit the official DWP ESA website or call 0800 169 0310 for further assistance.
