Hi Minxy
The new ESA system is called New Style ESA it is contribution based , the criteria for claiming NS ESA is exactly the same as claiming legacy benefit, CB ESA.
ESA is quite complex as there are three different types, as an adviser we need to know what type of ESA some one receives. With the legacy ESA a claimant could receive IR ESA or IR + CB ESA or CB ESA. Quite often claimants have no idea as to the type of ESA they received.
Gary
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems 
