Could I claim?

Nikita_2

Hi

I've always worked and never claimed benefits before, however I am now having to do temp work after relocating and failing to find a new full time job.

The temp work is not regular and I am earning approx £4,000 less a year. I have tried to get an appointment with the Jobcentre to discuss if I am entitled to any benefits but there is a 3 week waiting list.

A friend of mine is in exactly the same situation and gets £150 Working Tax Credit per month. Does anyone know if this is a set amount or is it based on individual status and after applying how long it takes to get approved?

thanks

Scarlett1

What I used to do when I was temping was be registered with a few agencies and jumped from one to another when the work dried up with one because I couldnt afford to work less than 36 hours per week, so if I temped with one and only had a 3 day job then would jump to another that had 1 weeks worth of work

If you work more than 16 hours per week you can claim WTC so thats worth looking into

suelees1

Depending on your wages you might be entitled to some HB and CTB so get your form in straight away. Don't forget to apply for the 25% discount for council tax.

WTC is not a set amount as it depends on the individual's circs.

buff-tom

Don't know if this will help but you may be able to claim JSA- Jobseekers Allowance if you are working an average of less than 16 hrs per week (over a 2 week signing period). If you work more than that I.E if you made a claim when you were working say 15hrs then you got more hours (16hrs+) you would have to sign off, if you then start working less again within 13 weeks you can make a rapid reclaim so long as none of your circumstances have changed.

A lot quicker process than making a new claim.