Job Seeker's Allowance (income based and contributory)
What is it?
Jobseeker's Allowance or JSA is paid to people who are available for and "actively looking for" full-time work. Most people have to sign on and register for work in order to receive benefit.
There are two types of Jobseeker's Allowance but you can only receive one at any one time:
- Contribution-based JSA is a flat-rate taxable allowance, paid for up to six months, based on your National Insurance contributions (stamp);
- Income-based JSA is a means-tested taxable benefit for people with no income or a low income, and with savings less than £16,000.
Do I qualify?
For both types of JSA you must sign on regularly, be looking for work and be able to show evidence of job seeking. You will also be asked to sign a jobseeker's agreement.
You must fit all the following criteria:
- you are available for work and you are actively seeking full-time work
- you have entered into and signed a jobseeker's agreement
- you are not working for more than 16 hours per week
- you are capable of work
- you are under pension age
- you are not in full time education.
In addition, to claim income-based JSA:
- your partner must not be working for more than 24 hours a week
- you or your partner must not have savings of £16,000 or more
- your household income must be low enough
To find out whether you could qualify, you can contact the Benefits Maximisation Service for a full benefits check.
How much is it?
Contribution-based JSA is paid at the following rates:
Under 25 = £47.95 per week
25+ = £60.50 per week
You cannot claim contribution JSA for dependants.
Income-based JSA is paid to ensure that you and your household receive at least the minimum weekly income that the government has set for someone in your circumstances. This can depend on the size of your family, your ages, and whether anyone is sick, disabled or is caring for someone. It also depends on what sources of income and savings you already have.
How do I apply?
On the first day you become unemployed contact your local Jobcentre Plus Office or the Jobcentre. You could lose benefit if you delay. When you register as unemployed you should be given a jobseeker's interview within five days. You will also receive a Jobseeker's Allowance claim pack. If you need assistance to complete contact us for further advice.
If you have previously been employed you may be allowed to restrict the type of work you look for during the first 13 weeks. During this period you will only need to agree to look for jobs that are in your normal occupation.
You will be asked to sign a jobseeker's agreement. If you do not sign the agreement you may not get Jobseeker's Allowance. While the Decision-Maker is considering your case you will not get benefit, but you may be entitled to a hardship payment.
People with special needs, health or disability issues can receive specialist advice from a Disability Employment Adviser.
More information can be found in the following DWP leaflets
Jobseeker's Allowance (353kb)
Joint claims for Jobseeker's Allowance when some of the conditions do not apply (187kb)
While claiming Jobseeker's Allowance (142kb)
JSA and IS for 16 and 17 year olds (399kb)
Useful contacts:
· DWP
For an easy way to find out which benefits might apply to you and your circumstances go to What can I claim?
The Benefits Maximisation Service can provide personal advice on what you may be entitled to and help you make a claim. For more information go to Benefits Maximisation Service.
What if I am not satisfied with the decision?
If you are refused benefit or if your JSA is withdrawn you can write asking for a revision within one month from the date on the decision. This means that a different Decision Maker will look at your claim again.
It is very important that you reply within one month, as you may not be able to challenge the decision otherwise.
If you are still unsatisfied once the revision has taken place you can ask to have your case heard by an independent appeal tribunal. This usually has to be on a form called a GL24, which is available from any DWP office. You can also ask the DWP to post one to you. Again, you must make your appeal within one month of the date of the revision.
Our Benefit Maximisation Service can help you with revisions and appeals.
What if my circumstances change?
If your circumstances change your entitlement to JSA can change. You must inform the DWP of any changes which could affect your entitlement, such as changes to income, savings, people living in your household, starting or leaving work. This list is not exhaustive.
For an easy way to find out which benefits might apply to you and your circumstances go to What can I claim?
The Benefits Maximisation Service can provide personal advice on what you may be entitled to and help you make a claim. For more information go to Benefits Maximisation Service.
Disclaimer
Although every effort is made to ensure the information on these pages is accurate and up to date, it should not be treated as a complete and authoritative statement of the law.