Claim Disallowed

cue

I've been on the dole about two years. I decided to go back to college so I applied for my BTEA. I got accepted to college but two weeks before I was due to start in Uni I found out that my credits were running out and I had to be means tested. I put down on the form that I was not available for work (with one week to go before I start studying, why would I apply for a job?). My claim has been disallowed because of this and my BTEA has been waiting for that decision so I presume that will be disallowed also. The SW office have advised me to send an appeal to Dublin. What do I do - tell them that I meant I was really available for work? That doesn't sit right with me. Anyone know how long this appeal process takes and what help I can get in the meantime as I have kids to feed and college to get to.
Any information will be greatly appreciated.

billy the squid

Firstly, you should get an application in to the HSE for supplimentary Welfare Allowance.

Secondly you should get on to the college in relation to the Student Assistance Fund. This should put money in your pocket and food on the table in the short term.

Then you get on to citizens information in relation to getting your appeal started.

GER12

Another option is to get in touch with the Irish National Organisation for the Unemployed - for advice. As you are aware you would have been entitled to receive BTEA anyway given the duration of unemployment - whether it was Benefit or transferring to allowance! As a matter of interest - what notice did the Dept give you that your credits were running out?

cue

I got about a months notice.