Contractor. Am I entitled to any benefits?

mackerana

Hi all! First post...

I'm currently a contractor and am about to finish next month.

It was initially a 3 month contract but has been extended lots of times.

The latest contract renewal was supposed to run until 31st January. However the company I am working for is trying to get rid of all contractors and has activated a one month get out clause so it will finish early.

I am currently looking around for a job, but the market seems a bit slow. I do have some money enough to last me 2 or 3 months if I cut back (under £4000 in the bank after the last wage goes through)

I am just wondering if I am entitled to any benefits. I have a mortgage to pay, and no debts.

I hope to get a job as so as possible, but just in case. I've never claimed anything before.

Any advice is welcome.

Cheers

M

:xmassign:

mcc28_x

If you are S/E and paying class 2 NI you cannot make a claim for contribution based JSA.

If you are single and apart from your 4K savings have no other sources of income, you may be able to make a claim for income based JSA provided you are actively seeking employment.

They would deduct £1 for every £250 over £3k i.e. £4 in your case.

As regards the mortgage depends when you took oi out but most likely you would have a minimum of 40 weeks to wait before interest payments would be considered.

Good luck

Mark

CIS

Try Tax Credits, they are payable to people dependent on income.

I would direct to to their website, but its down due to the recent fraud problems.

Try reading one of their leaflets to see if you qualify
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/leaflets/credit.htm

camper

whether entitled or not, you are entitled to CLAIM.

claims not backdated without good reason, so do so as soon as out of work.
proof of sub contracting would be helpful

mackerana

Cheers for all the replies...apologies for not posting back sooner.

I am currently employed as part of an umbrella company.

I am assuming CLAIM isn't some sort of weird and wonderful benefit!

Is it best to get in contact with the local job centre?

cheers

M

CIS

The tax credit claim is done by either telephone or claims form(tc600, i think) or website when its working again.

The jobcentre may stock the claims form but they are reasonably hard to come across, the best bet is to call the TC helpline to claim. 0845 300 3900.