Contributory ESA, or Employment and Support Allowance, is a type of financial support provided by the government in the United Kingdom for individuals who are unable to work due to illness or disability. To qualify for contributory ESA, applicants must have paid enough National Insurance contributions in the past two to three years. This benefit is designed to help cover living costs while individuals focus on their health and recovery. Unlike means-tested benefits, contributory ESA is not based on income or savings, making it accessible for those who meet the contribution criteria.