Unemployed again, benefit minefield, advice appreciated

tincat

Hi all,

I have emailed my local CAB with full details but haven't had a reply yet, and tried phoning them at the right times today but no reply.

I lost my job on Monday and will probably find it hard to get another in this climate. My work involves a bit of web design and SEO etc. However, I can also do all manner of admin / secretarial work if necessary.

I've been mulling it over, and think I've come up with a good solution, but just need advice on how to go about it:

A couple of years ago I was self employed trying to create a new business. The business didn't work out, however I got WTC and CTC and HB which kept me going for over a year until I exhausted myself over the business and eventually gave up.

Then I started working again, and worked a few temporary jobs and a permanent job until Monday. While working the temporary jobs, which happened to be long term assignments, I still received HB, but at a much reduced rate. This was cancelled when I got my permanent job.

Whether in temp work or in perm work, I got CTC and WTC.

Now that I have lost my perm job, I would like to become self-employed again, and try to bring in money in any way possible.

E.g.
doing web work for people locally
babysitting for people
temping assignments etc.

I would assume that I should declare my earnings every couple of weeks to ensure I don't get overpaid or anything.

My question is 'Can I become self-employed and do whatever I can to bring in money, while being topped up with HB, CTC and WTC'? I don't know if the rules have changed, or if there is something I haven't taken into account.

I read these boards quite a bit, but haven't seen an answer to my question.

I'm a lone parent so also have childcare issues - mainly after school care.

Thanks


ETA - I went yesterday with kids in tow to Job centre, but turned out to be a wasted trip as I can't do anything until my notice period (1 week) is finished and they won't even talk to me. I will apply for IS and HB next Monday and try v. hard to find work this week.

mcc28_x

If you tell tax credits you are self employed they usually accept that at face value and the number of hours you are doing which need to be a minimum of 16 for WTC.

I would advise you to keep invoices for the work you do and probably register as self employed via HMRC speak to Business Link for advice.

You could claim HB/CTB on grounds of low income but you will need to provide proof of earnings.

Good luck

Mark