Is job seekers benefit better in any way? (Than JSA)

Mecrab

I've never been on jobseekers benefit before but after leaving my job it's what I've been put on. My rate is lower than what I'd have gotten on JSA.

Dempo1

Mecrab wrote: »

I've never been on jobseekers benefit before but after leaving my job it's what I've been put on. My rate is lower than what I'd have gotten on JSA.

It's an interesting question, JSB is paid at four rates to a maximum of €203 pw which is the same as base rate JSA, however JSA is means Tested. JSA however can be paid at a lower rate also, based on a means test, spouse working as an example but equally it can be more if claimant has dependents etc.

The rate paid on JSB is based on most recent EARNINGS, also worth pointing out it's for a limited period until contributions exhausted, you then move onto /apply for JSA if still out of work.

I'm unsure if you get to make the choice initially but i presume so (open to correction) , between the 2 benifits.

So a simple answer is, it is possible you can get more on JSA but certainly not always the case due to means testing if this makes sense. The other question, which i can't answer, do you get to choose to change what benefit your on and that is best answered by DEASP.

Whiplashy

I had a friend on JB a few years back, getting less than what she'd get on JA. I told her to question them on it and they moved her to JA

Whiplashy

Forgot to add that the benefit of JB is its not means tested. JA is and you could end up getting a lower, or no, payment

Mecrab

Thanks guys, I'm going to contact them tomorrow and ask can I be moved to JSA as it would give me over 40 euro more per week.