Trying to find a job can be tough - financially and emotionally, particularly if you have been unemployed for some time. Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) can help you pay your way while you search for work.
Income-based JSA is a benefit for people who have to "sign on" as available for work. The amount you get depends on things like your income, age, health, disability and savings.
Who can claim
You can claim Jobseeker's Allowance if you are available for and actively seeking work and:
- you are under pension age (60 for women and 65 for men), and
- you do not work or work for less than 16 hours a week, and
- your partner (if you have one) doesn’t work or works for less than 24 hours a week, and
- your income is low enough, and
- you do not have more than £16,000 savings.
Parents – JSA claimants must claim Child Tax Credit (CTC) for children, JSA only includes money for adults.
If you already get JSA and still get additions for your children, you will be transferred onto CTC at a future date.
How to claim
Contact your nearest Jobcentre/Jobcentre Plus to make a claim.
Most 16 or 17 year olds can only get JSA in limited circumstances – for example if you are estranged from your parents. Contact Greenwich Welfare Rights Service for advice about this. To claim you must register for work and training with the Careers Service or Connexions. They can provide advice and information via phone and email.
If a young person has special support needs, they may be able to claim other benefits – check Over 16 with special needs for details.
Other help
If you are looking for work, the New Deal scheme can help with support, advice, training and job preparation.
You could get a Job Grant, if you stop getting Income Support or income-based Jobseeker's Allowance because you start working for 16 or more hours a week (or your partner starts working for 24 or more hours a week).
While you are on income-based JSA, you automatically get help with health costs, such as free prescriptions, dental treatment and sight tests.
More information
Contact Greenwich Welfare Rights Service using the number on the right or our online enquiry form.