Claiming benefits (first time advice)

simonp

Mid 40's, live alone in mortgaged house - never claimed any benefits.

I run my own business in the summer but tend to do zero contract lorry driving in the winter.

I keep seeing these adverts for free solar panels, roof insulation, new boiler, etc which my house could really do with.

So could I just 'sign on' or whatever the terms is for a couple of months this winter to get all these freebies then 'sign off' again and start driving?

Any thoughts welcome!

elsien

So when they ask for your annual income, your answer will be? 

poppy12345

To claim New style JSA you must be looking for work. If you're working zero hour contracts and have your own business then you won't be able to claim it. As this benefit isn't means tested then this won't entitle you to any of those that you mention.

Universal Credit it means tested and whether you qualify will depend on your circumstances. If you're single then your maximum entitlement will be £334.91/month. As you own your own home there will be no rent to claim. If your earnings are more than £600 per month then there will be no entitlement to UC because your earnings would reduce it to zero.

sammyjammy

Each scheme will also have additional requirements, its unlikely on a newly made claim you would meet those requirements.

mongoose2009

you expect the tax payer to pay to improve your house

okaaaaayyy

tifo

mongoose2009 said:

you expect the tax payer to pay to improve your house

okaaaaayyy

The taxpayer already does this for many people. Has done so for many years.

Most schemes are rinsed by the provider.