If you have recently left a job and feel that you want to continue working, you may be able to claim Job Seeker’s Allowance (JSA). You can claim this benefit if you have made enough national insurance contributions in the past three tax years. This is a non-means tested, so regardless of your income and savings, you can claim this benefit.
To claim this benefit, you must commit to looking for work for a certain period of time each week. You will have meetings at the job centre to review your progress in looking for work. You can claim this benefit for up to 6 months.
Mental Health
When claiming this benefit, if you feel that your health has deteriorated, you can submit a sick note. This should give you some time to claim the benefit without looking for work. If you remain unwell for a long period of time, you may be advised to claim Universal Credit or new style Employment Support Allowance (ESA).
Hospital
You can continue to receive this benefit while you are in hospital, but you may need to submit a sick note showing that you are in hospital.
Application
You can apply for this benefit online here or by calling 0800 055 6688
Further information about this benefit can be found here:
