JSA low first payment

brinky1

Hi, I lost my job on 2nd of December 2024. I took some time off as I was struggling with mental health and they failed my probation over it. They told me not to come back but didn’t actually tell me I’d been let go until the 18th and I received my p45 just after Christmas. I applied for Jsa on the 18th and explained this on my application. I received my last pay from them on 28/11.

I had my appointment at the job centre yesterday, and today I received a text message saying my first payment will be for £12 on the 10th, this Friday.

have they started my claim from the 18th and this is why it’s so low? Either way I’m not sure how I’m expected to live on £12 to cover me from 2nd of December until 2 weeks time (7 weeks total)

Thanks, for any advice.

poppy12345

brinky1 said:

Hi, I lost my job on 2nd of December 2024. I took some time off as I was struggling with mental health and they failed my probation over it. They told me not to come back but didn’t actually tell me I’d been let go until the 18th and I received my p45 just after Christmas. I applied for Jsa on the 18th and explained this on my application. I received my last pay from them on 28/11.

I had my appointment at the job centre yesterday, and today I received a text message saying my first payment will be for £12 on the 10th, this Friday.

have they started my claim from the 18th and this is why it’s so low? Either way I’m not sure how I’m expected to live on £12 to cover me from 2nd of December until 2 weeks time (7 weeks total)

Thanks, for any advice.

What date were your earnings paid up until? for JSA there's also a 7 day waiting period where you will not receive any money for that period. 

As you are snuggling with your mental health is JSA the correct benefit for you? If working is difficult it may have been better to claim New style ESA with a fit note from your GP. 

Have you also checked entitlement to Universal Credit? Do you have liability to pay rent to a landlord? UC can include help with housing costs. 

The JSA and ESA would be deducted in full from any UC entitlement.