Hi kath
I have answered your previous post, you need to get advice from your local Welfare Rights Organisation. I will try and answer your question from the information you have given.
As a new claimant you will not be able to apply for 'legacy' ESA, you may be able claim New Style ESA.
To get New Style ESA you’ll need to have been an employee or self-employed and paid (or been credited with) National Insurance contributions, usually in the last 2 to 3 years.
www.gov.uk/national-insurance You will also need to have a fit note (sometimes called ‘sick note’ or ‘doctor’s note’) but you can start making your claim before you have one. If you have only just become ill, you can self-certify for the first 7 days.
You can get New Style ESA on its own or at the same time as Universal Credit. If you apply for and are awarded both benefits, the New Style ESA you are paid will reduce your Universal Credit payment by the same amount.
www.gov.uk/guidance/new-style-employment...ailed-guide#overview If you have any further questions, come back to the forum.
Gary
