Becoming self-employed while on JSA

Sara_c_g

Hi everyone, long time lurker here!
I was hoping someone might have some advice for me regarding my current situation.
Myself and my partner were made redundant from our jobs in Nov (worked for the same place) and immediately applied for contribution based Jobseekers, which we are recieving - along with Housing Benefit. I have had a chat with a few customers from my old job and they want to offer me some freelance work - a bit of research suggests that I could make a decent wage for the next 6 months or so at least so I want to become self-employed and start this work. Its scary though - the prospect of not having a permanent job! That aside, I am excited about it and want to make sure I do everything by the book. I know I have 3 months to register as self-employed. I will be working more that 16 hours a week so I know we will have to come off JSA but when should I do tell them? If I start work at the end of this month, I will be invoicing to be paid by end of Feb. Will the benefits office stop my JSA the day before I start work, even though I wont be paid until the end of Feb at the earliest ot are there any schemes to help those wishing to become self-employed? I have an appointment with my personal advisor for next week but was hoping someone on here might be able to clarify things for me. Thanks in advance

grastgirl

I think the job centre has a scheme for people going self employed (although it might only be available if you've been out of work for 6 months). It is probably worth taking a look at their website or talking to them when you next sign on.

ukdickie31

Self Employed through Jobcentreplus is available to those on New Deal, although there is sometimes other support through partner organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Business Link and local organisations.

The advantage of New Deal Self Employment provision is the 'Trial Trading' whereby the Jobseeker is supported in setting up the business and trading is allowed, albeit with strict financial controls. The trial trading does not affect JSA if organised and carried out within the New Deal provision.

New Deal qualification is 6 months unemployed if aged between 18 and 24, and 18 months unemployed if aged 25 or over if on JSA. Other benefits have different criteria.

Ask at your local Jobcentre,

busy_mom_2

there is an early entry criteria for new deal and if you meet certain criteria you will be accepted, one of the criteria is adviser discretion so anything goes. me personalyy I book then to see the provider who deliver the provision and if they have a viable business and willing to accept them I go for it, down side is once you are on new deal you can't get off so ask your local jobcentre for a new deal early entry interview so you can discuss it with them. Each district has different providers and processes. in my district if accepted you would retain your jobseekers allowance for up to the first 26 weeks of your self employment but you wouldn't have full control over your business finanaces talk to your local office is your best option.:beer: