Jobseekers and extra allowance

suzieQue

Hi all,

I had a review of my Jobseeker’s Benefit this week with an inspector. I was on PUP and then moved to Jobseekers Benefit.

Everything went fine and I have to say the man who did the review was very helpful and courteous.

In fact he was so helpful that he said I should be claiming an additional allowance, however this would mean that my partner would be means tested.

My dilemma is this, I know my partner would be nervous of this and to be honest I am looking to start back at work asap, he got me to sign a form to say I’d drop in required docs in 7 days, but to be honest I would rather not claim the extra at all, I already feel bad enough claiming JB. It’s a white form I have and they keep a yellow copy of it.

I know he was being helpful, but do you think he will come looking for me if I don’t claim the extra allowance? I’m sure it’s standard procedure to sign for documents to be brought in etc I just don’t want to get in trouble?

If anyone has any information I would be delighted thank you.

Susan

Dempo1

Hi Susan, the inspector is obviously making you aware of additional allowances that may be available and yes it would require means testing. The choice is ultimately yours to make and as you've mentioned your hoping to return to work soon.

I'd just say this, keep in mind your JSB may only be paid for 6 or 9 months and if your not successful in obtaining a job or perhaps a full time job, at some stage you will have to apply and move onto JSA and you'll then face means testing.

If there is extra entitlements available I'd consider applying for them anyway but of course that's a choice only you can make.

Finally, do not feel bad about being on JSB, you have paid sufficient contributions to be entitled to it. Many, many people are in the same position as you, through no fault of theirs.

Good luck 😉

suzieQue

Thank you so much for your swift reply!

I’m meeting my boss this week about possibly returning to work in the next couple of months! (When his business picks up again!)

I know, it’s sound silly! I’m just concerned about that form he got me to sign, do you think they’ll come looking for me if I don’t return it?

Dempo1

No problem Susan, re the form, I presume this is to do with suppling documentation re means for additional allowances. I don't believe it would be an issue if you don't send it back but if you have the inspectors name, perhaps drop him/her a note and explain as your hoping to return to work soon, you've decided not to apply for additional allowances but express appreciation etc.

I'd certainly not just do nothing, always good to keep communication channel open 😉