Can I claim taxi fare to work?

CHRISSY

Hi Can anyone help me with this?

I have been unemployed for four months then my agency got me a job (yeah!) temp for 3 months going to permanent.

I didn't go to the comany for an interview just told to start last Monday.
My husband drove me up there on Sunday so I would know where I was going and it turns out I can get so far on the bus, but then there is a 3/4 mile walk.

I can't walk that far as I have arthritis in both knees. So the only way is to get a taxi from home cost £6 - £9.50 varying charges (don't get me started)

The thing is, I love the job and I would love to stay there but it's costing me about £40 per week to travel.

Can I claim any or all of this back from tax or benefits of any kind?

Sorry to be so long winded x

Piggles12345

I'm afraid I don't know whether you can claim this back, it might be worth speaking to your HR department.
Sometimes it can be awkward speaking to a new boss about stuff like this as you don't want to come across as though you either don't like the job or as someone on the scrounge!! But if you ring HR and ask them, they shouldn't relay the situation back to your boss as it is between you and HR.

Sorry that I can't tell you more.

soolin

It's very unlikely there is anyone that can help with the costs of travelling as that is just a usual expense that most people incur when they work.

Poppycat

Chrissy I dont think you can like others have said. if you disability is longe term which I assume arthritis is, you may be able to claim Disbaility Living Allowance (mobility element) which may help you get around and have a normal life as muhc as possible. II believe working doesnt effect this but best get some advice

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/FinancialSupport/DG_10011731


You may get Disability Living Allowance if:

• you have a physical or mental disability, or both
• your disability is severe enough for you to need help caring for yourself or you have walking difficulties, or both
• you are under 65 when you claim

How much do you get?

Disability Living Allowance has two parts called 'components':

• a care component - if you need help looking after yourself or supervision to keep you safe
• a mobility component - if you can't walk or need help getting around

Some people will be entitled to receive just one component; others may get both.
The care component and mobility component are paid at different rates depending on how your disability affects you.

CHRISSY

Thanks to all who answered my question. Poppycat I will apply for the mobility allowance its worth a try

Chrissy x

Fleago

Certainly apply for DLA, but you can also apply for Access to Work funding. This programme, in certain circumstances, can help to pay for taxi fares to work.

hardpressed

Could you ask if there is anyone who comes past the bus stop and can give you a lift for the last part of the journey, you may even find someone who comes past where you live and can give you a lift all the way.

princess

My colleague gets 'access to work' funding, in her case because of a visual impairment but it does cover a lot of things I believe. She has funded taxis to and from work. It must be worth a try...see above.

karen_newcastle

To cut costs you could arrange for a taxi to be waiting when you get off bus to take you the last leg of journey......then arrange a lift with colleagues when you get to know them.