Am I classed as unemployed?

JohnDoe1

Hi,

I am not working at the moment from my own will and not claiming any benefits, am I still classed as unemployed?

This is mainly for getting a quotes for insurance, applying for a credit card etc where they have the employment status field.

Uncertain

Not as far as I know.

Many of these forms have an option of something like "independent means" which would be the one to pick if available.

There must be a very substantial number of people in that position at the moment. They have either run out of contribution based JSA or ESA (even if they bothered to claim it in the first place) but have too many assets for anything means tested.

Will.ii.am

I'm pretty sure your unemployed.

Uncertain

Will.ii.am wrote: »

I'm pretty sure your unemployed.

On what do you base that?

In one sense then yes, literally, the OP is unemployed.

However the term normally implies that the person is seeking work which the OP is not.

There are many, many people in this position so presumably there is a "proper" answer if there is no option of independent means as I suggested earlier.

LittleVoice

The correct term for the OP is "not employed" or "not in employment". "Unemployed" officially means registered as unemployed with the DWP and actively seeking work.

Uncertain

LittleVoice wrote: »

The correct term for the OP is "not employed" or "not in employment". "Unemployed" officially means registered as unemployed with the DWP and actively seeking work.

I would agree but that only works if the form gives you that option or space to write something in. Many don't.

JohnDoe1

Uncertain wrote: »

Not as far as I know.

Many of these forms have an option of something like "independent means" which would be the one to pick if available.

There must be a very substantial number of people in that position at the moment. They have either run out of contribution based JSA or ESA (even if they bothered to claim it in the first place) but have too many assets for anything means tested.

Thanks guys.

I've don't think I've ever seen the option for "independent means" but I'll look out for it in future. There's sometimes a "Other" option, maybe I could use that instead.

The problem with this is that it is unambiguous and if you have any insurance claims then they might use this against you and refuse to pay out.

And it does beg the question of how many people are actually out of work but have too many assets to claim. I think the unemployment figures just include those that claim Jobseekers Allowance! The real figure must be way higher!

tomjonesrules

'Other' will lead to either a very high quote or a message to call them. You do need to ask the individual lender/ insurance, because incorrect information could invalidate your insurance.

anamenottaken

JohnDoe1 wrote: »

Thanks guys.

I've don't think I've ever seen the option for "independent means" but I'll look out for it in future. There's sometimes a "Other" option, maybe I could use that instead.

The problem with this is that it is unambiguous and if you have any insurance claims then they might use this against you and refuse to pay out.

And it does beg the question of how many people are actually out of work but have too many assets to claim. I think the unemployment figures just include those that claim Jobseekers Allowance! The real figure must be way higher!

If it's there and seems the most honest answer, use "Other". If it is an on-line form it may lead to a box in which to explain further. If it is a paper form you can write alongside it "Not Working" or "Not Employed" to cover yourself (pun not intended)

Uncertain

Yes....

I understand the insurance worry. All you can do is protect yourself by making sure you give them the correct information somehow (maybe by sending a letter and keeping a copy).

You can only legally claim JSA if you are actively seeking work. If you choose not to seek work, perhaps because you can manage financially without, I suppose you could class yourself as retired. There is no minimum age and plenty of people retire then, after a while, get bored and look for a job. Nothing is for ever!

lexon123

You are unemployed, and are likely to get rejected for whatever it is you are applying for. (despite having savings etc)

Perhaps contact whoever it is you're applying to and explain your situation to them in person/or over the phone.