Can both partners in a couple get esa contribution based?

frances55_2

Hi my husband is on esa contribution based support group, having been on incapacity benefit previously.I am currently working but my health is deteriorating and I am confused with ESA websites. Would I be entitled to make a seperate claim for ESA myself, I have paid national insurance for the last 3 years, or will my husband just receive couple allowance if I am unable to work?

Cpt.Scarlet

Providing you are eligible for ESA(CB), then yes, both of you can have a seperate claim, however, if you are only entitled to income related ESA then it must be joint claim, although your husband can retain his existing ESA(CB) claim.

frances55_2

Thanks for your reply. I thought that was the case but the websites are so confusing!!