# What is New Style Employment and Support Allowance?

> Quick answer · Last updated 22 August 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-new-style-esa/
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## In short

New Style ESA is a National Insurance contribution-based payment if a health condition or disability limits how much you can work. In 2026/27 the personal allowance is £75.65 a week under 25 and £95.55 at 25 or over, plus a work-related activity or support component after assessment.

It is not the old income-related ESA. Savings do not block New Style ESA. You need a recent NI record. If you do not have that record, claim Universal Credit and ask for a Work Capability Assessment there. Many people get both — ESA is deducted from UC as unearned income.

After the Work Capability Assessment, DWP places you in the work-related activity group (£37.95 extra) or the support group (£50.35 extra). Permitted work can allow some earnings — the 2026/27 weekly limit is £203.50. Official: https://www.gov.uk/employment-support-allowance

PIP is separate extra-costs money. You can get PIP and New Style ESA together. Guide: [New Style ESA](/benefits-tax/new-style-esa-explained/).

## Related

- [New Style ESA explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/new-style-esa-explained/)
- [New Style JSA](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/new-style-jsa-explained/)
- [PIP explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/personal-independence-payment/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/employment-support-allowance

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.