ESA/UC State pension age

Hi cbrad,

I wasn't overly sure of this myself, so I've checked online and found the following information to help assist you:

You can't usually receive Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) when you reach State Pension age, as existing ESA awards stop automatically at that point. However, if you are already receiving ESA and reach State Pension age, you may need to claim Universal Credit instead.
Here's a more detailed explanation:

ESA and State Pension Age:
ESA is a benefit for people who are under State Pension age and have an illness or disability that affects their ability to work.

Automatic Termination:
When you reach State Pension age, any existing ESA award should stop automatically.
Claiming Universal Credit:
If you are over State Pension age and were previously claiming ESA, you may be eligible for Universal Credit instead.
Income-Related ESA:
If you were claiming income-related ESA, your pension income will be taken into account when determining your Universal Credit entitlement.
Contribution-Based ESA:
If you were claiming contribution-based ESA, you may be able to claim Universal Credit as well.
Check Eligibility:
It's important to check your eligibility for Universal Credit and other benefits when you reach State Pension age.
Contact DWP:
If you have any questions or concerns about your ESA payments or your eligibility for other benefits, contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)


The UK's Christmas Bonus is a one-off, tax-free £10 payment paid to people receiving certain benefits, including the State Pension, in the first full week of December. You don't need to claim it; it's paid automatically

Chris.