Jobseekers Allowance

linda52_2

I am claiming Jobseekers allowance (Contribution based) and have been offered a job, can anyone tell me if I am obliged to take this first job offered? -the hours and job involved are not what I thought. Also what happens after 6 months of claiming if I do not find suitable employment. Thank you. This is the first time I have been unemployed after working for over 20 years.

BERFFRO

Welcome to the board, There's a load of very good helpful people on here that can your answer your question with great detail, But for now i'll try my best!

My quite sure that you don't have to take up the first job you are offered if you feel that the job is unsuitable for you, Although wouldn't you be happier doing something as you've worked for over 20 years?

Your contribution based JSA after 6 months of claiming changes to income based JSA not difference in how much money you get.

purplepardalis

You will only get income based JSA after 6 months if you do not have a partner who is working or who earns very little.

I don't know what they would say if you did not take the first job offered. I guess it would help if you had another interview in the pipeline

viktory

It is easier to get a job, when you already have a job. You have no idea when you will be offered another job, so turning this one down could be foolish in the extreme.

busy_mom_2

linda52 wrote: »

I am claiming Jobseekers allowance (Contribution based) and have been offered a job, can anyone tell me if I am obliged to take this first job offered? -the hours and job involved are not what I thought. Also what happens after 6 months of claiming if I do not find suitable employment. Thank you. This is the first time I have been unemployed after working for over 20 years.

The job that you applied for were you notified via the jobcentre or did you find it yourself? Technically refusal of suitable emplyment can result in a sanction of up to 26 weeks.
As for the end of the 26 weeks you can apply for JSA IB but depends on your circumstances as to whether you apply. Would of thought a job was better than JSA rates you can still look for another job.

leedsfan_3

You can always just try it out for a couple of weeks, the job centre will be happy for you to do that and if you really dislike it, then leave, discuss it with them.

vaporate

Refusing employment is not wise.