Is ESA based on a diagnosis?

bluefox
bluefox Online Community Member Posts: 647 Empowering
in Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Is ESA based on a diagnosis?

It probably isn’t. But does it help to have a diagnosis?

One of my friends has a set of symptoms not yet diagnosed and they’re wondering if they can claim ESA. 

Comments

  • poppy123456
    poppy123456 Online Community Member Posts: 63,174 Championing
    This has been answered many times over various threads of yours, no it isn't. There's no benefits you can claim based on a diagnosis alone.
    Whether your friend is entitled to ESA will depend on their NI contributions in tax years April 2019 to March 2021. If they haven't paid the correct amount they won't be entitled.
    They can look at claiming UC which is means tested so whether they qualify will depend on their financial circumstances. If they live with a part they need to claim as a couple and their joint circumstances will be taken into consideration. If they have savings over £16,000 they're excluded from claiming. They can use a benefits calculator to check entitlement.
  • calcotti
    calcotti Online Community Member Posts: 10,005 Championing
    There are a few exceptions, most notably terminal illness (less than 12 months to live) or cancer treatment. Otherwise it is all about impact not cause.

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