Need a question answered re: JSA waiting

whirlpool

Hey

I was on JSB from May '09 to Feb '10, when it ran out. I applied for JSA at the beginning of February (I know I left it very late. I was unsure of the correct procedure.)

Until I start receiving JSA, I will be technically without an income.

I'm wondering how long before I will receive a means test interview - will my local social welfare office have an idea how long it will take?

I'm also wondering how long will it take between the means test interview and when I start receiving the payments?

Finally, while I'm waiting, are there emergency payments I can apply for in the meantime? If yes, how does that work exactly?

Thanks in advance.

Dempo1

Hi There, i am surprised your JSB ran out so quickly, normally it would be from 9 months to 12. Anyway, you should have been advised to go straight to your CWO (most health centers) but check on the citizens information website, they have all the addresses and also tell you if a CWO is in attendance. If you have filled in your application for JSA, and sent it, it should be on the system, the CWO has immediate access to your information. Bring along a copy of your application if you have it, don't worry if not. You will have to bring along recent bank statement, Photo ID, recent utility Bill (proof of address), The CWO should be able to arrange payment whilst your JSA application is being processed. Its important you see the CWO ASAP as you could miss payments whilst the application process proceeds and it can take up to eight weeks.

whirlpool

Thanks Dempo Well my JSB did last 9 months and then ended.
Thank you for all that info, I will go to my local CWO tomorrow.