If you apply for Universal Credit, you’ll need to attend a Jobcentre Plus interview. Find out what happens in your job centre interview and how to prepare.
What happens in a Universal Credit interview at Jobcentre Plus?
In your interview, or what could be called your first meeting, you’ll talk to your work coach about how you plan to look for work. This is your ‘claimant commitment’ that you’re required to do if you are able to work.
You’ll talk about the type of work you’re interested in and looking for, how much you want to earn (realistically), how many hours you would be able to work each week, and any restrictions you might have (this could include travel, and a reliance on public transport for example).
You’ll also discuss other things in your life that could affect what kind of work you can do. This might include:
- Having young children
- Caring responsibilities
- An illness or medical condition
- Homelessness
- An addiction
- A recent bereavement
Once you’ve talked about your circumstances, you’ll be told what ‘work related activity group’ you’re in. This relates to things you have to do to keep receiving benefits.
Some examples of what you might need to do in order to keep getting your benefits:
- Meeting regularly with your Work Coach
- Writing a CV
- Actively searching and applying for jobs
What should you bring to a Jobcentre Plus interview?
At the very least, you’ll need the following:
- Photographic ID (passport or driving licence)
- Proof of address (an official letter from a bank, utility company or similar)
- Proof of your National Insurance number (find this on your NI card, a payslip, or a letter from HMRC.)
- A bank statement or bank card.
It’s important that you have documentation to prove your identity (to match your online application). If you do not provide them, your financial support won’t start until it’s provided.
If you need to buy new ID, you can ask your work coach about using money from the Flexible Support Fund.
Depending on circumstances, you might also need things like:
- Proof of how much rent or mortgage you pay
- Proof of any savings you have
- Proof of your current or former income, for example a payslip or P45
- Details of any other income you have
- Evidence of your childcare costs and any child benefit you receive.
Important: When you make your appointment, ask them exactly what you will be expected to bring, as it may differ for different people.
If you don’t have any of the documents, talk to your advisor and ask what other arrangement would be acceptable.
Citizens’ Advice has also provided this handy checklist. Use it to make sure you’ve got everything you need. It also tells you some of the questions you’re likely to be asked – make notes before you go so you remember everything.
It’s also a good idea to take along a notebook and pen.
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
