New-style employment and support allowance can now be claimed online

Updated guidance also confirms new eligibility conditions for benefit for those affected by COVID-19

New-style employment and support allowance (ESA) can now be claimed online, according to updated DWP guidance.

In ‘New Style’ Employment and Support Allowance: detailed guide', the DWP confirms that, as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, new-style ESA can now be claimed where - 

• a person, or their child, thinks they have coronavirus or is recovering from it;
• a person, or their child, is self-isolating because they came into contact with someone who might have coronavirus;
• a person has been told to stay at home for at least 12 weeks by the NHS because you’re at high risk of severe illness.

In addition, the guidance highlights that a claim for new-style ESA can now be made online -

If you’re not getting Universal Credit, you can apply for New Style ESA online. You’ll need:

• your National Insurance number
• 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)
• your doctor’s name, address and telephone number
• details of your income if you’re working
• the date your Statutory Sick Pay ends if you’re claiming it

You must apply by phone if you’re an appointee applying on behalf of someone else.

For more information, see ‘New Style’ Employment and Support Allowance: detailed guide from gov.uk