DWP Launches New £140 Weekly Benefit – See If You’re Eligible Today

If you’re facing health challenges DWP that make it hard to work, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of people across the UK find themselves unable to work due to illness or disability. In such situations, the New-Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) can provide a vital safety net. Not only does it offer weekly financial support of up to £140, but it also helps protect your National Insurance (NI) record — which can be crucial for your future State Pension.

Let’s take a deep dive into what this benefit is all about, who qualifies, how much you can receive, and how to apply. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step.

What Is New-Style ESA?

New-Style ESA is a benefit provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to support people who are too ill or disabled to work. Unlike Universal Credit, which takes into account your household income and savings, New-Style ESA is based solely on your recent work history and National Insurance contributions.

Think of it like a kind of insurance that you’ve already paid into while working. If your health takes a turn and you can no longer work as you used to, this scheme steps in to help you get by financially while you recover or adapt.

Who Can Get It? Key Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, you need to meet the following three core conditions:

1. Age Requirement: You must be below the State Pension age (currently 66 in the UK).
2. Medical Condition: You must have a health condition or disability that affects your ability to work. This can include both physical and mental health issues.
3. NI Contributions: You should have made enough National Insurance contributions in the last 2 to 3 years. Usually, this means having worked and paid NI in at least one of those tax years.

What If You Don’t Meet These?

Don’t panic. If you don’t meet all three criteria, you might still be eligible for other support schemes such as Universal Credit or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

How Much Can You Receive?

The amount you’ll receive under ESA depends on which phase of the process you’re in and the outcome of your assessment.

Payment Breakdown:

ESA Phase	Weekly Payment	Description
Assessment Phase	Up to £84.80	This covers the first 13 weeks while your application is being reviewed.
Work-Related Activity Group	Up to £113.60	You’re expected to prepare for a return to work.
Support Group	Up to £140.55	You’re not expected to work due to the severity of your condition.

Please note: If you receive a private pension of more than £85 per week, your ESA might be reduced.

The Application Process

Applying for ESA is a straightforward process, but you’ll want to be thorough to avoid delays or denials. Here’s how to get started:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Use the government’s online tools or speak with a benefits advisor to confirm your eligibility. This includes checking your NI record, which can be done through your personal tax account on GOV.UK.

2. Submit an Online Application

Head to the official GOV.UK ESA page and complete the online form. You’ll need:

• National Insurance number
• Details of your income and employment history
• Medical evidence (more on that below)
• Bank account details for payment

3. Provide Medical Evidence

Strong documentation increases your chances of a successful claim. Examples include:

• GP letters
• Hospital discharge summaries
• Specialist reports
• Test results or X-rays (if available)

4. Attend a Work Capability Assessment

DWP may request a face-to-face or phone assessment. This helps determine how your condition affects your ability to work. You’ll usually be asked about your daily life, mobility, and mental health.

Based on this, DWP will place you in either the Work-Related Activity Group or the Support Group.

5. Get Your Decision

Once assessed, you’ll receive a decision letter. If approved, your payments will continue as scheduled. If you’re unhappy with the decision, you can ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration or appeal to a tribunal.

Can You Work While Receiving ESA?

Yes, but only under certain conditions. This is called “Permitted Work,” and it allows you to:

• Earn up to £140 a week
• Work less than 16 hours

This can include volunteer work, part-time jobs, or therapeutic activities recommended by your doctor.

Examples of Permitted Work:

• Helping at a local charity shop
• Doing admin work for a few hours a week
• Teaching art classes as part of recovery therapy

As long as you stay within the permitted work limits, your ESA payments will not be affected.

Additional Support You Might Qualify For

In many cases, people claiming ESA also qualify for other benefits:

1. Universal Credit (UC)

If you have low or no income, UC can help cover housing costs, childcare, and daily living.

2. PIP (Personal Independence Payment)

If your illness affects your ability to carry out daily tasks or move around, PIP can provide additional financial support.

3. Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction

Available through your local council, these can ease rent or council tax burdens.

4. Carer’s Allowance

If someone cares for you for at least 35 hours a week, they may be eligible for support too.

Why New-Style ESA Matters

Aside from the obvious financial help, ESA plays a bigger role in your long-term stability. It keeps your NI contributions active, which helps when calculating future entitlements like the State Pension.

In uncertain times, this benefit can offer peace of mind — especially when your health makes life more challenging.

Final Thoughts:

Whether your health setback is sudden or long-term, support is available. The New-Style ESA could be just what you need to stay afloat without risking your long-term financial well-being. Check your eligibility, gather your documents, and start the process. You’ve paid into the system through your hard work — now let that system support you when you need it most.

FAQs