Jobseekers Allowance
Jobseeker's allowance is the main benefit for people of working age who are out of work or work less than 16 hours a week on average and expected to sign on as "available for work".
This is in contrast to Income Support which is intended for people not expected to sign on.
There two types of job seekers allowance:-
- Contribution based JSA - Payable for 6 months to those who have recently been making National Insurance (NI) contributions.
- Income based JSA - Payable indefinitely, means tested with no influence from NI contributions.
To be eligible for income based JSA you must satisfy all of the following:-
- Work less than 16 hours/week
- If you have a partner, they must work less than 24 hours/week.
- Not to be in full time education (exceptions apply)
- Pass a means test.
- Have capital/savings below £16,000.
- Be available for an actively seeking employment.
Jobseeker's allowance pays a basic amount, but it is known as a "passporting" benefit mean entitlement opens the door to other means tested benefits such as Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit, free prescriptions and free school meals. Couples without dependent children must claim for joint-JSA and both must be available for work.
Payment of JSA can be withdrawn if you do not comply with certain jobs seeking conditions, fail to convince you making reasonable efforts to seek work, or voluntary leave employment without just reason. You can appeal against JSA sanctions and apply for "hardship payment" if it is completely stopped and you are in a vulnerable group. Vulnerable groups include carers and those with a disability or dependents.
Contribution-based Jobseeker's Allowance
The maximum weekly rates are:
| Age | Amount |
| Aged 16 - 24 | £56.25 |
| Aged 25 or over | £71.00 |
Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
The maximum weekly rates are:
| Type of person | Amount |
| Single people, aged under 25 | £56.25 |
| Single people, aged 25 or over | £71.00 |
| Couples and civil partnerships (both aged 18 or over) | £111.45 |
| Lone parent (aged under 18) | £56.25 |
| Lone parent (aged 18 or over) | £71.00 |
Figure last checked for correctness: May 2012
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