Partner going back to work

TayTay_3

Hi there,
Im a little confused so any help/advise is welcome.
Basically myself, my partner and 1year old child are lodging with a friend at the moment, it was only supposed to be temp (still here nearly a year later!)
My partner has finally found work which is great. However...currently we are claiming Joint JSA, Housing Allowance and Tax Credits (+child ben)
What will happen when my partner starts work concerning JSA , i know he wont be entitled to it but will i still be? Im not actively seeking work at the moment (due to child care) Or would my partner have to support me fully?
Concerning Tax Credits, will they reduce a lot? I don't understand much about Working Tax/Tax credits....

Also we are looking to move out but if we rent private and my partner is working would we still be entitled to help with the rent? If so has anyone got any ideas as to how much? Our area is quite expensive and would near enough take a whole wage....

Sorry if i sound stupid im just really confused and worried that we will be worse off for working! (although he will take the job either way!)

Indie_Kid

A lot of the answers to your questions would depend on how much your partner earns per week.

McKneff

One of your questions could be answered. If you are not actively seeking work you cannot ckaun JSA, this speaks for itself really because it is Job Seekers Allowance.

YOu could look into child care allowances to allow you to work. There is plenty of help with this if you genuinely want to work, even part time.

TayTay_3

Ok so for example:
At the moment we pay £480pm to lodge here, and receive £346pm.
My partner will be earning im about £1200pm (before tax)
Rent in the area for a 2 bed is atleast £850pm, and on the LCA website is says you can claim upto £186pw....but obviously that will be different with an income coming in.

Indie_Kid

If either of you work 16 hours or more, you can claim working tax credits.

TayTay_3

I know that question sounded stupid BUT why an im entitled to JSA now then? I really dont get it, i was advised to put in the joint claim...?

Jowo_2

Have a look at the LHA direct website which will tell you the maximum LHA that your family size could get for your local post code (I'm guessing 2 bedroom rate).

Then input all your details into the Entitled To website to see what you could be entitled to (remember that income affects the means tested benefits/allowances such as LHA, council tax and so on).

TayTay_3

Thank you, i went on the website and it said roughly about £100 a week which is a great help. Thanks!

sunnyone

You are not entitled to JSA yourself because you havnt lived here and payed tax in the relevant years.

Why not let your partner work a few months before looking at private months to be able show landlords that hes working because many landlords dont take LHA but if its a LHA topup you are in a better situation.