Denied JSA. Don't understand.

heartfield

I returned from Spain to take care of my parents, now passed on. I received carers allowances for doing so.

Then I started work, after 11 months I was made 'redundant' last January.
(It seems to be a regular habit of this particular employer, to make all staff redundant before they get employment protection).

I signed on, and was told that as I did not have 2 years contributions I would not receive any payments; but I would be credited for such things as my state retirement pension.

Now that the 2 years is up they are saying that I do not qualify for JSA because of my savings. I am puzzled by this decision because I am led to believe that the first 6 months of JSA is not means tested.

I can appeal, but on what grounds do I appeal. Do I have a case. Please help.

cte1111

I think you are still ineligible for Contribution Based JSA as you've not worked for the qualifying period. And as you are already aware, are ineligible for Income Based JSA, owing to your savings.

"Contribution-based JSA. You can get this for up to six months if you have been working and have paid enough national insurance contributions within the last couple of years. It is paid just for you. "

heartfield

This is what puzzles me, as I now have 2 years contributions with my time as a carer, time employed and time signing on, I can't see why they do not at least pay me 6 months from now.

I have received no payments of any kind since signing on in January.

Thanks for replying.

richard9991

you would have been credited with national insurance credits as you were claiming carers allowance but these dont count for jsa contribution based only state pension you have to have payed ni contributions as an employee in relivent tax years.

HB58

richard9991 wrote: »

you would have been credited with national insurance credits as you were claiming carers allowance but these dont count for jsa contribution based only state pension you have to have payed ni contributions as an employee in relivent tax years.

Exactly what I was going to say.

rozmister

Like the above posters said the national insurance credits you get whilst unemployed/a carer only contribute towards your pension for when you retire not your present contribution level.

You need to work more or less full time hours for 2 solid years to receive contribution based JSA. I worked 20 hours a week for the past 3 years and don't qualify. I've still paid enough to contribute towards my state pension in that period but not enough to qualify for contribution based JSA.

Horseunderwater

It's not amount of hours - it is for last year £102 earned a week and this year £107 a week to qualify for JSA/ESA contributions benefits. And I think the min is 26 weeks pf earnings to get anything, but usually it is 2 full years paid up. Oh and for 2 years back £97/week. So that will be why you do not qualify.

heartfield

Thank you for taking the time to reply. Looks like I have to find a job then!!!!!