How to get Universal Credit and New Style JSA Benefits: Step by Step Guide

How to get Universal Credit and New Style JSA Benefits: If you are looking for financial support while searching for a job in the UK, New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) and Universal Credit are two options you can consider. This guide explains eligibility, how the benefits work, and what you need to know to make a claim.

What Is New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)?

New Style JSA provides financial assistance while you search for work. It replaces income-based JSA, which is no longer open to new claims. If you are still receiving income-based JSA, payments will continue as long as you meet eligibility criteria until your claim ends.

Eligibility Criteria for New Style JSA

To apply for New Style JSA, you must meet the following conditions:

1. Employment History:
   • Worked as an employee.
   • Paid Class 1 National Insurance contributions (or received credits) in the last 2–3 years.
2. Additional Conditions:
   • Be 18 or over (exceptions apply for 16–17-year-olds; contact Jobcentre Plus for advice).
   • Be under State Pension age.
   • Not be in full-time education.
   • Be actively looking for work and available to start working.
   • Work less than 16 hours per week on average.
   • Live in the UK.
3. Exclusions:
   • You are not eligible if you were self-employed and paid only Class 2 National Insurance contributions, except if you were a share fisherman or a volunteer development worker.
   • You cannot claim JSA if you have an illness or disability that prevents you from working.

How Long Can You Get New Style JSA?

You can claim New Style JSA for up to 182 days (about six months). After this period, your work coach will discuss further options with you.

Note: Your savings and your partner’s income or savings do not affect your claim.

Universal Credit and Its Eligibility

Universal Credit is designed to support people on a low income or those who need help with living costs. It can be claimed either alongside or instead of New Style JSA.

Who Can Apply for Universal Credit?

You can claim Universal Credit if you:

• Are out of work, working part-time, or self-employed.
• Are unable to work due to a health condition.
• Live in the UK.
• Are aged 18 or over (exceptions apply for 16–17-year-olds).
• Are under State Pension age.
• Have £16,000 or less in savings, investments, and money.

How to get Universal Credit and New Style JSA Benefits

You may be eligible to receive both benefits simultaneously, but it’s important to understand how they interact:

• New Style JSA payments will count as income when claiming Universal Credit.
• This reduces the amount of Universal Credit you can receive.

New Style JSA payments are generally paid more frequently than Universal Credit. Additionally, receiving JSA provides specific National Insurance credits, which contribute to your State Pension and other benefits.

Your Responsibilities While Claiming JSA

While receiving New Style JSA, you must:

• Take reasonable steps to look for work, as agreed upon with your work coach.
• Meet all commitments outlined in your Claimant Commitment.

Failure to meet these requirements could result in your JSA payments being stopped.

New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) and Universal Credit offer vital support for individuals seeking employment or managing living costs. While these benefits have overlapping features, they cater to different needs and circumstances. If eligible for both, understanding how they interact ensures you can make the most of the financial assistance available. Remember, staying proactive in your job search and maintaining communication with your work coach are key to successfully navigating the process.

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