Income Support for Self Employed (B16)

Eugene's_Pal

Hi Guys,

I would really appreciate some advice.

I was claiming JSA for 2 months and then signed off to start my own business (hand making wooden ornaments and furniture). So far it's been a bit of a nightmare as my costs are still far higher than my sales. I try to work full time on the business.

I had hoped I could claim some sort of Income Support and found this form (B16) on the internet: http://www.dwp.gov.uk/advisers/claimforms/b16.pdf
However, my Jobcentre and welfare rights service tell me that no such benefits exist and they have never heard of this form. I've tried filling it in but I'm stuck on most of the questions.

If any of you forumites could look at this form and give your opinion as to whether or not someone like me would be entitled I'd be extremely grateful.

alwaysskint96

Wouldnt you be able to clAaim working tax credit instead?

Conor_3

Yeah...working tax credits should be the first port of call. It's higher than IS as well. You'd possibly also qualify for CTB and HB.

Eugene's_Pal

Thanks for your answers guys!

I don't think I am eligible for working tax credits as I was a student until the summer and then travelled for a while.

Does anyone think that a person just starting out in business can qualify for income support? As I said, no one at my Jobcentre or welfare rights office knows about the B16 form!

alwaysskint96

Eugene's_Pal wrote: »

Thanks for your answers guys!

I don't think I am eligible for working tax credits as I was a student until the summer and then travelled for a while.

Does anyone think that a person just starting out in business can qualify for income support? As I said, no one at my Jobcentre or welfare rights office knows about the B16 form!

I dont think that would make any difference to be honest- unless you are under 25

real1314

There isn't a benefit specifically for the self employed, but people who are eligible for Income Support AND are also self employed would (afaik) use the form you've found to declare their self employment income.

To get income support you either need to be a lone parent, unfit for work or a carer receving carer's allowance.

Eugene's_Pal

Thanks for all your advice. I think I'll give working tax credits a go then. Is there some sort of cut off date according to the tax year? I think the tax year ends next week so will I miss out in some way if I don't apply before?

donnalove

yes but if you ring up now then there is a possability of it being backdated 3 months.

lfcdream

if you work less than 16 hours self employed or employed you can be on jobseekers. but if you earn they might take some off you

fink tax credits is all about what you earn.

dazzammm

does anyone know if online guidelines exist for B16 form?

Oldernotwiser

dazzammm wrote: »

does anyone know if online guidelines exist for B16 form?

I'd start a new thread - this one's over 3 years old.