Job seekers backdated?

socratez

I left my job in June after months of mental ill health. This is the first time I have been out of work in about 25 years. I didn't apply for any benefits as I didn't think I would be eligible as I have some savings.

I was on the .Gov website and realised that I could apply for JSA and possibly have it backdated. How is it possible to get it backdated and what would be the reasons?

Thanks in advance

Spoonie_Turtle

I can't help with JSA but ESA is the one to claim if you have health issues, which you can have backdated for up to three months if your GP will issue a fit note to cover that time.
It also lasts longer than JSA, which is six months maximum whereas ESA is up to 12 months, or indefinite if you're put into the Support Group.

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers/employment-and-support-allowance/help-with-your-esa-claim/check-if-you-can-claim-esa/

https://www.gov.uk/employment-support-allowance

Edit: if your savings are under £16,000 (including any belonging to a partner) you should do a benefits calculation just to check whether you can claim anything else.  You might not be but no point accidentally missing out for the sake of 10 mins putting your details in
https://www.entitledto.co.uk/
https://benefits-calculator.turn2us.org.uk/