Confused about joint benefit claim - JSA, HB etc

doodoot

Oh I so hope that one of you may help as I've been given conflicting information each time I call the benefits helpline, and I would like some firm answers before we make a claim.

I've recently started working part-time in a school - term-time only, and only a few hours per week so I don't pay NI or tax...not ideal but it's the first job offer I've had since applying for jobs since October last year.

I'm due to cease being a full-time mature Uni student in a week or so - my classes actually stopped 3 weeks ago but the benefits office said that technically my end date will be next week.

My DH was due to start a new job 2 weeks ago but has been let down.

The conflicting information is the following:

1. We have to make a joint JSA claim due to me working less than 16 hours per week, and I would have to sign on and be looking for part-time work - if I refuse to claim JSA then we would not be entitled to HB and Council Tax Credit.

2. He can make a lone claim and due to my low hours we will still be able to claim HB and CTC.


Does anybody know the correct information???

I've tried numerous times to ring CAB but it's either engaged or answer machine, and I'm fed up of being told one thing then another each time I ring the benefits office.

Thanks in advance guys.

Caz3121

you don't need to be claiming JSA to be able to claim HB and Council Tax benefit

doodoot

Thanks for your reply, Caz.

Yes I already know this as a friend has a low income and claims a little HB and CTC.

I'm really upset that I may be forced to claim JSA and have to give up this job as it is a step on my preferred career ladder and has taken me nearly 8 months to get it.

Morlock

doodoot wrote: »

I'm really upset that I may be forced to claim JSA and have to give up this job...

Why would you be forced to give up your job? You can claim JSA/sign-on and continue to work.

doodoot

Morlock wrote: »

Why would you be forced to give up your job? You can claim JSA/sign-on and continue to work.

Morlock, I was told during one phone call that if I claimed JSA then I would have to apply for other jobs and if I'm offered one then I have to take it or face a sanction.