DWP payment boost could be on offer if you work under 16 hours a week

People with a disability that impacts their capacity to work could be eligible for up to £140 per week. The Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) offers a variety of benefits to those who qualify, including financial assistance for living expenses and additional support to help claimants re-enter the workforce.

Importantly, this Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefit can be claimed whether you're unemployed, employed, or self-employed.

Applicants for ESA don't have to wait to start receiving funds. An assessment rate is provided for up to 13 weeks while the claim is being evaluated, amounting to £72.90 per week for those under 25 and £92.05 per week for those aged 25 or over.

The amount you could receive from ESA

ESA is typically disbursed to claimants every two weeks. The payment rates vary depending on which group you fall into.

Those in the work-related activity group can receive up to £92.05 per week, while those in the support group - those who cannot work - can get up to £140.55 per week.

However, if your claim takes more than 13 weeks to process, you will continue to receive the standard assessment rate until a decision is made or when your ESA is due to end. If you're owed any money after the 13-week period, your ESA could be backdated.

Who qualifies for ESA

You can apply for the New Style ESA provided you're below the State Pension age and have a disability or health condition that limits how many hours you can work. You must be able to demonstrate that you previously worked as an employee or were self-employed and must have sufficient National Insurance contributions - usually in the last two to three years - or the equivalent in National Insurance credits.

You can continue to work while receiving ESA, provided you work fewer than 16 hours a week and do not earn more than £195.50 a week. Furthermore, voluntary work does not contribute towards the total hours worked each week, but this will still need to be reported when making your claim.

How to apply for ESA

You can submit an application for ESA through GOV.UK here. However, before you start the application process, you will need the following information at your disposal:

• details of your income, if you're working
• the date your Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) ends, if you're claiming it
• your bank or building society account number and sort code (you can use a friend or family member's account if you do not have one)
• a fit note (sometimes called a 'sick note' or a 'statement of fitness for work') if you've not been able to work for more than 7 days in a row because of a disability or health condition
• your doctor's name, address and telephone number
• your National Insurance number

If you're unable to apply online, it is recommended that you contact the Jobcentre Plus new claims helpline by dialling 0800 055 6688.