DWP confirms that universal credit claimants should now apply for new-style ESA online or by phone instead of through their online account

Update to guidance for stakeholders and claimants

Universal credit claimants should now apply for new-style employment and support allowance (ESA) online or by phone instead of through their online account, according to updated DWP guidance.

In ‘New Style’ Employment and Support Allowance: detailed guide', the DWP confirms that -

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.

NB - an update to the guidance on 20 April 2020 set out new eligibility conditions for people affected by coronavirus (COVID-19), and also stated that -

'If you’re not getting Universal Credit, you can apply for New Style ESA online.'

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