Are you unsure how much you’ll be paid if you’re placed in the Support Group for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) in 2025? If you have a long-term health condition or disability that prevents you from working, this group offers vital financial help.
The amount you receive depends on a few important factors including your age, the type of ESA you’re on, and whether you qualify for additional premiums.
In this blog, we explain exactly how the 2025 ESA Support Group payments work and how to understand what you’re entitled to.
What Is the ESA Support Group?
The ESA Support Group is specifically for individuals whose medical condition or disability severely limits their ability to work. If you’re placed in this group, it means the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) does not expect you to prepare for work or engage in work-related activities.
To qualify, you must undergo a Work Capability Assessment, and your condition must meet the criteria for being in the Support Group. Once accepted, you receive a higher payment rate compared to those in the Work-Related Activity Group.
How Much Will You Receive Weekly in 2025?
If you’re aged 25 or over and placed in the Support Group, your weekly ESA payment in 2025 will be:
| Payment Component | Weekly Amount (2025) |
| Personal Allowance (age 25+) | £84.80 |
| Support Group Component | £44.70 |
| Total Weekly Payment | £129.50 |
This means you will receive a total of £129.50 per week. The figure may vary slightly depending on your age, whether your claim is income-based or contribution-based, or if you qualify for extra disability premiums.
If you qualify for additional support such as the Enhanced Disability Premium or Severe Disability Premium, your weekly payment could be higher.
Does Other Income or Savings Affect ESA?
Yes, it depends on the type of ESA you are receiving:
- If you’re on income-related ESA, savings over £6,000 can reduce your payments, and savings over £16,000 usually disqualify you from receiving ESA entirely.
- If you’re on contribution-based ESA, your savings do not affect your payments. However, some forms of other income such as pensions may still be taken into account.
Contribution-based ESA is usually granted to those who have made sufficient National Insurance contributions, while income-related ESA is means-tested and based on financial need.
When and How Are Payments Made?
ESA payments are made every two weeks directly into your bank account. You can check your upcoming payment dates and amounts through your award letter or by accessing your ESA or Universal Credit account online.
If you are unsure how to manage your benefits, or if you’re facing issues with your claim, ukbenefits.co.uk provides helpful and practical guidance for claimants in the UK. Their resources are designed to support people at every stage of their benefit journey, from initial applications to long-term planning.
What If You’re Moved to Universal Credit?
If you are currently receiving ESA and receive a notice to move to Universal Credit, you will be assessed for the Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) group. This is essentially the Universal Credit equivalent of the ESA Support Group.
Here’s what to expect:
- Your ESA Support Group status will generally transfer to LCWRA automatically.
- Your benefit amount may change, but transitional protection should ensure you don’t receive less than before.
- You’ll still be exempt from work-search requirements.
The DWP will inform you of the migration process and guide you through any changes to your payments.
Final Thoughts
Being placed in the ESA Support Group in 2025 can provide meaningful financial relief if you’re living with a health condition that limits your ability to work.
With a standard weekly rate of £129.50 for those aged 25 and over, and the potential for additional premiums, this benefit remains an important part of the UK’s welfare support system.
Make sure to review your award details carefully and seek advice if you’re unsure about your entitlements.