Navigating the UK benefits system can be overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to understand how different entitlements like ESA (Employment and Support Allowance) and PIP (Personal Independence Payment) work together.
If you’re wondering how much ESA you’ll get if you get PIP in 2025, or if you’re eligible to claim both, this complete guide breaks it down.
Whether you’re new to benefits or already receiving one and considering applying for the other, here’s what you need to know about a joint ESA and PIP claim in 2025.
Can You Get ESA and PIP Together in 2025?
Yes, you can receive both ESA and PIP simultaneously in 2025, depending on your eligibility. These are two separate benefits:
- ESA is aimed at people who are unable to work due to illness or disability.
- PIP is for those who need help with daily living or mobility due to long-term health conditions or disabilities.
Claiming ESA and PIP Together
Many people are eligible for both ESA and PIP. However, how much ESA you receive can depend on whether you’re getting PIP, especially if you’re eligible for additional premiums or in the support group.
While you can’t submit a “joint claim” in one form, being on PIP may increase your ESA entitlement due to disability-related premiums.
How Much ESA Will I Get If I Get PIP in 2025?
This is one of the most common and crucial questions: “How much ESA will I get if I get PIP?”
The answer depends on several factors:
- Type of ESA: Income-related or contribution-based
- Whether you’re placed in the support group
- If you qualify for disability premiums
- Your age, living situation, and savings
Breakdown of ESA Rates (2025 estimates):
| ESA Component | Weekly Rate (approx.) |
| Basic allowance (under 25) | £67.20 |
| Basic allowance (25 or over) | £84.80 |
| Work-related activity group | £35.00 (limited cases) |
| Support group | £44.70 |
| Enhanced Disability Premium | £19.55 |
| Severe Disability Premium | £76.40 |
If you are receiving PIP, you may be entitled to both the Severe and Enhanced Disability Premiums, especially if you’re also in the ESA support group.
ESA Support Group and PIP — What Happens?
Being placed in the ESA support group typically leads to higher payments, less conditionality (no job-seeking requirements), and eligibility for additional benefits.
If you’re also receiving PIP, your ESA support group status enhances your entitlement to disability premiums.
What Happens If I Am Put in the Support Group for ESA?
- You get a higher ESA rate.
- No work-related activities are required.
- If you receive PIP Daily Living, you may get the Severe Disability Premium.
- You may also get the Enhanced Disability Premium if you’re under pension age.
PAA questions answered:
✔️ What happens if I am put in the support group for ESA?
✔️ ESA support group and PIP
✔️ ESA support group Disability Premium
Is ESA Support Group Means-Tested or Contribution-Based?
This is another critical distinction.
- Contribution-based ESA: Based on your National Insurance contributions. It’s not means-tested, so savings or partner income don’t matter.
- Income-related ESA: Means-tested. Your household income and savings are taken into account.
If you’re receiving PIP, it won’t count as income against income-based ESA, but other earnings and savings might.
PAA questions answered:
✔️ Is ESA support group means tested?
✔️ Contribution-based ESA support group
Moving from ESA Support Group to Universal Credit
Universal Credit (UC) is gradually replacing income-related ESA. If you’re on contribution-based ESA, you can stay on it, but if you’re income-related, you may eventually be moved to UC.
What Happens During the Transition?
- Disability premiums (like the severe or enhanced premium) are not directly carried over to Universal Credit.
- You may receive a transitional payment to protect your income temporarily.
- PIP is not affected by UC changes—it remains a separate benefit.
PAA question answered: ✔️ Moving from ESA support group to Universal Credit
ESA PIP Joint Claim 2025 — Example Calculations
Here are a few sample cases to help you estimate your joint entitlement in 2025:
🔹 Case 1: Single claimant, aged 40, support group, receiving PIP Daily Living and Mobility
- ESA: £84.80 base + £44.70 support group
- Severe Disability Premium: £76.40
- Enhanced Disability Premium: £19.55
Total weekly ESA: £225.45
🔹 Case 2: Married couple, one partner on ESA and PIP, the other working
- Contribution-based ESA only (means-tested ESA not eligible due to partner’s income)
- ESA: £84.80 + £44.70 = £129.50 weekly
- No additional premiums due to partner’s income
🔹 Case 3: Single claimant, under 25, on ESA work-related activity group and PIP
- ESA: £67.20 + £35.00
- May get Enhanced Disability Premium if on PIP
Estimated Total: £121.75 weekly
These are approximate estimates. For accurate figures, use an official benefits calculator or contact a welfare advisor.
→ Read more: ESA Contact Number
Other Benefits You May Be Eligible for with ESA and PIP
Claiming both ESA and PIP may also make you eligible for:
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
- Free prescriptions and dental care
- Disabled Facilities Grant
- Warm Home Discount Scheme
- Motability Scheme
- Blue Badge Parking Permit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔸 Do I automatically get ESA if I get PIP?
No, these are separate benefits. You must apply for ESA separately, but receiving PIP can help you qualify for extra ESA premiums.
🔸 How often are ESA and PIP paid?
ESA is typically paid every two weeks. PIP is usually paid every four weeks.
🔸 Can ESA and PIP be backdated?
Yes, if you were eligible before your claim date and can provide evidence, both ESA and PIP may be backdated.
🔸 What happens if my condition changes?
If your health improves or worsens, it’s essential to notify the DWP. You may be reassessed for ESA and/or PIP.
Conclusion: Should You Claim ESA and PIP Together in 2025?
If you’re struggling with a health condition or disability in 2025, claiming both ESA and PIP could significantly increase your financial support—especially if you qualify for the support group and disability premiums.
While there’s no official “ESA PIP joint claim form,” receiving one benefit often supports your claim for the other. PIP can unlock Enhanced and Severe Disability Premiums within ESA, and the total combined weekly amount can exceed £200 for some individuals.
To get the most out of your claim:
- Use a benefits calculator
- Keep documentation of your medical condition
- Seek independent welfare advice
Understanding your rights and entitlements is the first step toward securing the support you deserve.