How to apply
You can apply for New Style ESA or New Style JSA online, or contact the Jobcentre Plus new claims helpline. GOV.UK says you could get them at the same time as Universal Credit or instead of it.
Jobcentre Plus helplines for JSA and ESA
| What for | Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| New claim for New Style JSA or ESA | 0800 055 6688 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
| Relay UK (new claims) | 18001 then 0800 055 6688 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
| Welsh language, new ESA claim | 0800 328 1744 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
| Welsh language, new JSA claim | 0800 012 1888 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
| Existing New Style JSA or ESA claim | 0800 169 0310 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
| Welsh language, existing JSA or ESA claim | 0800 328 1744 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
| Relay UK (existing claims) | 18001 then 0800 169 0310 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
A British Sign Language video relay service is also available for these lines. Note that these lines close at 5pm, an hour earlier than the Universal Credit helpline.
Jobcentre interviews for JSA and ESA
The Universal Credit list of identity documents does not cover JSA and ESA. If you are claiming either of them, GOV.UK has separate guidance on what to bring to your Jobcentre Plus interview. To find the address of the office in your letter, use our jobcentre directory or search by postcode.
Universal Credit questions
For anything about a Universal Credit claim, use your online journal or the Universal Credit helpline on 0800 328 5644 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm). All numbers in one place: jobcentre phone numbers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get New Style JSA and Universal Credit at the same time?
GOV.UK says you could get New Style ESA or New Style JSA at the same time as Universal Credit, or instead of it.
What is the phone number for a new JSA or ESA claim?
The Jobcentre Plus new claims helpline: 0800 055 6688, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Welsh language: 0800 328 1744 for ESA and 0800 012 1888 for JSA.
Who do I call about an existing JSA or ESA claim?
The Jobcentre Plus helpline on 0800 169 0310, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 169 0310.
Do I bring the same ID as for Universal Credit?
No. The Universal Credit identity list is for Universal Credit; GOV.UK has separate guidance on what to bring to your Jobcentre Plus interview for those benefits.
Related guides
Your jobcentre appointment
Why you are called in, how it works and what happens on the day.
What to bring: ID documents
1 photo ID plus 2 supplementary documents, all originals.
Missed or late for an appointment
What to do straight away and what "good reason" means.
Universal Credit sanctions
Levels, how long they last and the daily reduction rates.
Claimant commitment
The agreement with your work coach and how to keep it up to date.
How to claim Universal Credit
Apply online, the 28-day rule and what you need to have ready.
Sources: GOV.UK: Contact Universal Credit · GOV.UK: Documents to verify your identity for Universal Credit. Jobcentre Offices is independent and not affiliated with the DWP or Jobcentre Plus. Rules and rates change: confirm on GOV.UK or with your work coach before you act.