What is New-style ESA?
New-style ESA is a type of contributory ESA, which means it is based on your personal National Insurance contribution history. It follows the same rules as the older type of contributory ESA, known as ‘contribution-based ESA’.
The main difference is that New-style ESA is part of the Universal Credit system. This means if you receive New-style ESA and your income is low; you will need to claim Universal Credit to top it up if you are eligible.
If you are unsure whether you receive contribution-based or New-style ESA, you can check with the DWP. However, from 1st December 2025 all remaining claims for old-style contribution-based ESA will automatically convert to New-Style ESA.
