What benefits can I claim if I am unemployed or looking for work?
If you are unemployed, Universal Credit is the main means-tested payment for working-age people. New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance is contribution-based: it depends on National Insurance you have paid, not on savings in the same way, and you can often get it with Universal Credit.
Income-based JSA has ended for new claims. If you see older advice about savings limits for JSA, it is describing the closed benefit. Housing costs for most working-age renters go through Universal Credit, not a new Housing Benefit claim.
Benefits this usually points to
Universal Credit
A monthly payment to help with living costs if you are on a low income, out of work, or cannot work. It can include amounts for housing, children, disability, and caring.
New Style Jobseeker's Allowance
A contribution-based benefit if you are unemployed or working 16 hours a week or less and you have paid enough National Insurance. You can get it on its own or with Universal Credit.
Council Tax Reduction
Help from your local council if you are on a low income and need to pay council tax. Each council runs its own scheme, so the rules and amounts vary.
Housing Benefit
Help towards rent if you are on a low income. Most working-age people now claim housing costs through Universal Credit instead. Housing Benefit still applies in some situations, including many people of State Pension age.
Check what may apply in your circumstances
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.
You will usually need to look for work
Universal Credit and New Style JSA both normally need you to agree a claimant commitment. There are exceptions if you have a health condition, caring responsibilities or a young child. Those exceptions are on GOV.UK, not something a generic blog can list for every case.
Other circumstances
- What benefits can I claim if I have a disability?
- What benefits can I claim as a carer?
- What benefits can I claim over State Pension age?
- What benefits can I claim on a low income?
- What benefits can I claim as a single parent?
- What benefits can I claim if I am pregnant?
- What benefits can I claim if I rent?
- What benefits can I claim if I am self-employed?
This is independent guidance. Only the relevant government department can confirm eligibility. How we source and verify.