Cut in hours - JSA query

iclayt

Hello, I've posted this in the jobseeking section as well as wasn't sure where was best. Hopefully someone can help.

I'm a part time, postgraduate student. I haven't been on JSA since 2006 for a month or so after graduating.

I work part time, only 14 hours, but it pays quite well for a part time job and I usually take home around £130 a week. I'd like more hours but it's a small town and there's not much going - the usual story these days.

Anyway I was told last week that my hours are going to be reduced to around 5 a week from 21st June until October - argh.

I haven't been eligible for JSA as I earn too much (even though it's under 16 hours) but surely I will be eligible if I'm only working 5 hours? I am of course looking for more work but I can't live on about £50 a week income in the mean time.

I've had a look at the various websites (direct.gov, jobcentre etc) and they don't really give any information for someone in my position.

So my questions are:

Am I eligible for JSA to 'top up' my earnings?
If so, from what date could I apply?
Would I have to provide evidence of my lower earnings beforehand? I'm paid weekly and would therefore have to work a couple of weeks before I had any payslips. Though I could get a letter from my employer. We don't have contracted hours, just work on a rota system arranged largely by the employees among themselves.

Any advice welcomed. Thanks.

NASA_2

You can claim JSA but dont be expecting a huge amount of money on top of your earnings. After a £5 disregard your current earnings are taken into account in full. They can confirm earnings with an employer. You can claim now if you want.