Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)

If you've lost your job, or you're working very few hours, and you're looking for work, Jobseeker's Allowance can give you a bit of breathing space while you find your feet. These days, almost everyone claims "new-style" JSA, which is based on your National Insurance record.

How much is it? (weekly rates from April 2026)

• Under 25: £75.65
• 25 or over: £95.55

It's usually paid every 2 weeks, and you can get it for up to 182 days (26 weeks).

Who can claim?

• You're 18 or over and under State Pension age.
• You've paid enough National Insurance in the last 2 to 3 tax years.
• You're out of work, or working fewer than 16 hours a week.
• You're available for work, actively looking, and have agreed a Claimant Commitment with your Jobcentre.

Good things to know:

• It isn't means-tested, so your savings and your partner's income don't affect it.
• There are 7 waiting days at the start before payments begin, so claim as soon as you become eligible.
• You may get less if you have part-time earnings or a private or workplace pension over a set weekly amount.
• It's taxable, but most people won't end up paying tax on it.
• You can claim new-style JSA and Universal Credit together. The JSA counts as income, so it reduces your UC pound for pound, but it's worth getting both in place if you need help with housing or children.
• If you don't have enough National Insurance contributions, Universal Credit is the benefit to look at instead.
• If you stop being able to look for work because of illness, tell the DWP, as you may need to move to ESA or Universal Credit with health support.
• Missing appointments or job-search steps without a good reason can lead to a sanction, which cuts your payments, so if something goes wrong, tell your work coach straight away.
• Some people still get older income-based JSA, which is closed to new claims.

Where to start: you can claim online on GOV.UK or by phone. Citizens Advice and Turn2us are very helpful if you'd like to check what else you might be entitled to alongside it.

Rates are correct for 2026/27, but always double-check on GOV.UK. JSA works in England, Scotland and Wales. Northern Ireland has its own version, so our NI friends should check Nidirect.

Job hunting can be tough, so please share your tips and moral support on the forum.