If you need to contact the Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) team, having the right ESA contact number and knowing the best way to get support can save you time and stress.
Whether you’re making a new claim, checking the status of an existing claim, or reporting a change in circumstances, this guide will help you reach the right ESA helpline quickly and efficiently.
Quick Reference: ESA Contact Numbers
Here are the main ESA contact numbers you’ll need:
- Main ESA Contact Number (Existing Claims):
0800 169 0310 - ESA Textphone (for hearing or speech difficulties):
0800 169 0314 - Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone):
18001 then 0800 169 0310 - Welsh Language Line:
0800 328 1744 - Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm (excluding public holidays)
| ESA Contact Number | Purpose | Notes | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0800 169 0310 | Main ESA contact for existing claims | For England, Scotland, and Wales | Mon–Fri, 8am to 5pm |
| 0800 169 0314 | ESA Textphone | For people with hearing or speech difficulties | Mon–Fri, 8am to 5pm |
| 18001 then 0800 169 0310 | Relay UK service | For those who cannot hear or speak on phone | Mon–Fri, 8am to 5pm |
| 0800 328 1744 | Welsh language ESA helpline | For Welsh speakers | Mon–Fri, 8am to 5pm |
| 0800 055 6688 | New ESA claims (England, Scotland, Wales) | To start a new ESA claim | Mon–Fri, 8am to 5pm |
| 0800 085 6318 | New ESA claims (Northern Ireland) | For Northern Ireland residents | Mon–Fri, 8am to 5pm |
| 0800 587 1377 | Existing ESA claims (Northern Ireland) | For Northern Ireland residents | Mon–Fri, 8am to 5pm |
How to Contact ESA for Different Needs
New ESA Claims
If you’re making a new ESA claim, use the following numbers:
- England, Scotland, and Wales:
0800 055 6688 - Northern Ireland (New Claims):
0800 085 6318 - Northern Ireland (Existing Claims):
0800 587 1377
Video Relay Service for Sign Language Users
- British Sign Language (BSL):
Use the video relay service via the official website. - Irish Sign Language (ISL):
Northern Ireland residents can access ISL video relay through NI Direct.
Alternative Ways to Contact ESA
If you cannot call or prefer not to use the phone, there are other ways to contact ESA:
- Online:
You can apply for ESA or report some changes online via the official government website. - Email and Webchat:
Some local Jobcentre Plus offices offer webchat or email options. Check your claim paperwork or the official site for details. - By Post:
You can send documents or change notifications to the address on your ESA letters. - Through Universal Credit Account:
If you receive Universal Credit as well as ESA, you can report changes online through your account.
What Information You Need When Calling ESA
To help the ESA advisor assist you quickly, have the following ready:
- Your National Insurance number
- Details of your claim (reference number, if available)
- Information about your change of circumstances (if reporting a change)
- Supporting documents, such as a fit note or medical certificate, if relevant
Common Reasons to Call the ESA Contact Number
People contact ESA for a variety of reasons, including:
- Making a New Claim:
Get guidance on eligibility and the application process. - Discussing an Existing Claim:
Check the status of payments, assessments, or provide additional information. - Reporting a Change of Circumstances:
Such as a change in health, employment, address, or bank details. - Requesting Communications in Alternative Formats:
Such as braille, large print, or audio CD. - Seeking Help with Payments or Eligibility:
If you have missed payments or questions about your entitlement.
Accessibility and Support Services
ESA provides several options for people with accessibility needs:
- Textphone and Relay UK:
For those with hearing or speech difficulties, use the textphone or Relay UK service. - Video Relay for BSL/ISL Users:
Access sign language support through video relay services. - Local Support:
Many local charities and advice centres can help you prepare for your ESA call or application.
ESA Contact Number FAQs
Can I contact ESA outside business hours?
No, the helpline operates Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
What if I can’t get through on the phone?
Try calling at off-peak times (early morning or late afternoon). You can also use online or postal options.
How do I contact ESA if I live in Northern Ireland?
Use the dedicated Northern Ireland numbers listed above.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious call?
ESA will never ask for your full bank details or password over the phone. If in doubt, hang up and call back using the official ESA contact number.
Useful ESA-Related Keywords
For those searching online or using voice assistants, try these terms:
- ESA helpline
- ESA customer service number
- ESA support number
- ESA enquiry line
- ESA helpdesk
- Contact ESA about claim
- ESA phone support
- ESA application support number
Conclusion
Contacting ESA is straightforward when you have the right contact number and information ready.
Always use the official ESA helpline or support numbers listed above, and prepare your details in advance to make your call as smooth as possible. If you need extra help, remember there are accessibility options and local support services available.
Stay safe, and avoid sharing personal information with anyone who cannot prove they are from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
For the latest updates or to apply online, visit the official ESA page.
Need more help?
If you have a specific question about your ESA claim or need help with the application process, don’t hesitate to use the ESA support number or contact your local Jobcentre Plus.