Housing benefit with no job

dankerrysmum

i have recently stopped working my self employed business , I was getting wtc and ctc for my two kids , I am now only getting the ctc and child benefit , I don't want to claim jsa just yet I'd rather job hunt myself , I'm still getting my rent benefit , I know I will have to inform them that I'm not working , but should I still get the rent benefit , we are basically living off £117 child tax credits per week and child benefit of £34 , I know you will all say I should claim jsa whilst looking for work but I'd really rather not , I'm just a little worried about the rent benefit , any advice would be appreciated x

specialboy

As your circumstances have changed it is your duty to inform HB

dankerrysmum

Yes I know I have to inform them , this has happened very recently

nannytone_2

you don't have to claim JSA to get housing benefit, but be prepared for them to look into your claim thoroughly.
if you aren't claiming JSA, they will want to know what you are living on and how you are managing to do that.
just to add ... whatever your reasons for not wanting to claim ...
the ct. and child benefit are paid for your CHILDREN and not for you. do you think its fair on them to go without because you don't want to claim?

missapril75

nannytone wrote: »

...if you aren't claiming JSA, they will want to know what you are living on and how you are managing to do that...

Yes, one can claim HB on zero income. Just expect a couple more questions. If they can be satisfied, for example, that you have below limit savings that are being used for a short period that should be fine.

I am a bit surprised that the government hasn't yet linked HB with some sort of job seeking aspect or exemption.

rogerblack

missapril75 wrote: »

I am a bit surprised that the government hasn't yet linked HB with some sort of job seeking aspect or exemption.

For a tiny subset, they have.
Those that claimed UC without any housing costs, and subsequently had housing costs, they will be paid support through UC, not HB.
Any support is contingent on looking for work, or more work if you're not earning up to 35*NMW/week.
(this may be reduced if you have caring responsibilities or a disability).

If you don't comply with the work-search requirements, no help with housing for you.