The New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (aka JSA) and Universal Credit are both benefits you can apply for as a young person, but what’s the difference? Let’s take a look…
What is the New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance? Am I eligible?
The New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance is a contribution based benefit for people who are looking for work. Contribution-based means that it’s based on the National Insurance (NI) you’ve paid in the two years before the year you’re claiming in.
Sounds complicated? Don’t worry – the government website has a useful table you can use to compare your current situation with your eligibility.
NI is usually taken out of your wages, so if you’re a young person looking for your first job, you’re not likely to be eligible. This is where Universal Credit comes in.
You can check if you’re eligible for JSA here.
What is Universal Credit?
If you don’t qualify for JSA, you can apply for Universal Credit. It’s a monthly payment to help with living costs and has replaced JSA in a lot of circumstances.
To qualify for Universal Credit, you’ll need to:
- Live in the UK
- Be aged 18+ (there may be exceptions for 16-17 year olds)
- Be under state pension age (when you start receiving your state pension)
- Have £16,000 or less in money, savings and investments
You can apply for Universal Credit online. You will usually then go for an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus to receive job searching support and help with meeting the requirements that your benefits depend on.
People receiving Universal Credit will be out of work or have low income. New rules state people claiming universal credit and working fewer than 18 hours a week will be expected to look for more, or better paid, work.
Money Skills And Tips
Did you know that the Broadband Social Tariff could help get you discounts if you’re on benefits?
Maybe you’re looking for tips on how to save money when going to job interviews.
Our Money Skills zone may be able to help.
Overcoming Barriers
Nearly all of us have a barrier that holds us back. And it’s something we deserve to get support with. If any of these sound like something you need support with, perhaps our resources can help:
- Mental health
- Travel or location
- Race / gender / identity
- Disability
- Internet access and broadband costs
- Having a criminal record
- Young carer
- Young parent
This article was updated in December 2023. While we aim to keep this information up to date, it’s important you check the government website using the links above to check for updates on eligibility and requirements of these benefits.
Jobcentre Plus Support
See how the Jobcentre can help young people get jobs, training, work experience and other opportunities, and explore Frequently Asked Questions to understand what support you could receive.
More Jobcentre Plus Information
