boyfriends been made redundant

nerose

My boyfriend was made redundant a month ago, and we were hoping that he would get another job, but now we are no where near him getting a job, i was wondering if there was any benefits we could get towards council tax, rent etc, as my wages alone will not cover us for a whole month, and i'm actually completely scared that we're going to lose everything, i really need some advice and help, i don't know where to turn. thank you

Great_Hairdresser

Hello

I am in exactly the same position and posted in tears on Monday, some lovely helpful people gave me some great advice - so hear goes.

Your OH should be able to get JSA - he needs to contact the benefits office.
If you work more than 30 hours a week you should be entitled to working tax credit.
If receiving tax credits you may then be entitled to council tax benefit and help with your rent (not to sure about the rent as I have a mortgage)
Any debts you have can be put "on hold" just paying a minimal amount until your OH gets a job.
Hope this helps, there are lots of people that know alot more than me who I am sure will be along soon to advise.
Good Luck, and Keep your chin up, it is never as bad as you first think xx

ariarnia

To start with, don't panic.

You need to go and see your council, and your OH needs to go to the local jobcentre or call the advice line to sign on.

You should get a 25% reduction on council tax if your partner qualifies for JSA, you should also get an amount towards rent (LHA) if you're on a low income from your wage alone, and if you're on a very low income you might get full CT benefit and full LHA (though unlikely if you're working any real kind of hours).

If your wage is low you might also get working tax credits, or if you work less than 16 hours a week, you are also eligible for JSA but will receive a reduced amount as you only get to keep the first £5 of your wages a week before it gets taken off the JSA payments for you and your partner. (or maybe £10 as a couple)

That is to say, JSA is 100 a week (ish) so if you earn £105/110 a week then you will get no jsa for you or your partner, but you will both still get NI conts paid if you qualify.