How does it work?

ESA consists of two phases – the assessment phase and the main phase. In most cases, if you qualify for ESA you will not get any money for the first seven days of your claim. These are called waiting days. Then you will get the assessment phase rate while the Jobcentre assesses your ability to work.

The assessment phase rate is paid for the first 13 weeks of your claim while a decision is made on your capability for work through the Work Capability Assessment. The main phase rate starts from week 14 of your claim, if the Work Capability Assessment shows that your illness or disability does limit your ability to work.

There are two groups within the main phase:

Work-Related Activity Group

If you are placed in the Work-Related Activity Group you will be expected to take part in work-focused interviews with your personal adviser. In return, you will receive a work-related activity component in addition to your basic rate. But if you refuse to take part in work-focused interviews, it may affect your benefit. The Welfare Reform Act 2012 implemented a one-year time limit on payment of contributory ESA for people in the Work-Related Activity Group.

Support Group

If you are placed in the Support Group because your illness or disability has a severe effect on your ability to work, you will not be expected to take part in any work-related activity, but you can do so on a voluntary basis if you want to. You will receive a support component in addition to your basic rate.