Getting into work benefits in the UK
If you’re unemployed, on a low income or working less than 16 hours a week, getting into work benefits could help you find a job and boost your income.
Table Of Contents
What are getting into work benefits?
There are a range of getting into work benefits designed to help people get back into work, either by finding a job or by increasing their working hours. Between 2022 and 2023, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spent £59.9bn on working-age benefits.
The type of benefit you can claim will depend on your financial circumstances, such as how much you earn and if you have any dependants. There are benefits to help you to increase your salary, find a job or become more skilled. The three main benefits for those out of work or on low wages are:
- Universal Credit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance
What benefits can help with returning to work?
If you are out of work, or earning a low salary, getting into work benefits can help. In the UK, 4.4% of people were unemployed between February and April 2024. This type of financial support can help with the cost of everyday expenses and bills.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is means-tested and it’s for working-aged people with a low income. You must meet the criteria to apply, including being 18 or over, a UK resident and not in education.
The amount you are paid depends on your income and your circumstances. The basic amount you could claim is between £311.68 and £617.60 per month. This may be higher in some cases, such as if you need help with caring or childcare costs.
Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
The ‘new style’ Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) can pay you a sum of money for up to six months while you look for a new job. It’s available to those who are out of work or working less than 16 hours a week. It can be claimed on its own or alongside Universal Credit.
To claim JSA you need to show you’re looking for a full-time job that will involve working 35 hours a week or more. It pays a personal allowance of £71.70 for those aged 18 to 24 and £90.50 for those aged 25 or older.
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
If you have an illness or disability and therefore have a limited capacity for work, you may be able to claim the Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
It’s for people who can’t claim Statutory Sick Pay. There are two types:
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Contributory/New Style Employment and Support Allowance
The income-related ESA, which is means tested, is being replaced by Universal Credit.
How much money you could get depends on several factors, such as your age and your capacity for work.
You will also need to go through a work assessment with the DWP. Before the assessment, you could receive £71.70 per week if you’re under 25 and £90.50 per week if you’re 25 or older. After the assessment, you could receive up to £138.20 per week.
How much could I claim with getting into work benefits?
Benefit |
Potential amount available |
How to apply |
|---|---|---|
Universal Credit |
Up to £617.60 per month |
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
Jobseeker's Allowance |
Up to £90.50 per week |
|
Employment and Support Allowance |
Up to £138.20 per week |
Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm |
Apprenticeship incentives
Apprenticeships can be a great way to improve your skills. They can help you to get new qualifications that can lead to a new job or a promotion.
When you are taken on for an apprenticeship, you will usually be paid a salary and get holiday pay, alongside working with experienced staff. You will also be given time to train and study around the hours you are working.
There are several government approved apprenticeships. Apprentices can claim income-related benefits. Use a benefits calculator to see which ones.
Career Development Loans
If you’re looking to change jobs or learn a new skill, a loan can help to fund training or education. The Career Development Loan scheme is not open to new applicants anymore but there are a range of other financial resources that can help.
You could apply for an Advanced Learner Loan, for example, which can help with the costs of a college or training course in England.
The minimum amount available is £300, which is paid directly to the provider offering the course. If you are approved, you may also be eligible for a loan bursary fund. It can help with the costs of accommodation, travel, childcare and material and equipment for your course.
What is the eligibility criteria for work-related benefits?
Work-related benefits aren’t for everyone, and you must meet the strict criteria to apply. Most getting into work benefits will require you to earn a set amount, work less than 16 hours a week or have a reason for not being in work.
How to apply for work benefits
You can apply for work benefits online or at a local Jobcentre. If you need extra help or don’t have internet access you can also apply on the phone or by post.
Some benefits require an interview before they can be approved, and for you to agree to certain conditions. JSA, for example, requires you to be in contact with a work officer who will be assigned to you.
How to get the most out of work benefits
Work benefits can provide financial help to those who need it. After you are back into work or working more hours, there is help for those on low incomes. Once you are in a position when you are in a job and your salary has increased, you can then explore developing your career further, such as with training.
Jobcentre Plus
If you need help or advice on getting a job, changing careers or applying for getting into work benefits, you can contact your local Jobcentre. You can find your nearest office online.
National Careers Service
Whatever stage of your career you’re in, you may need some advice. The National Careers Service can help. It lists training courses, potential jobs you can apply for, and offers skills reviews. It can also help with advice on improving your CV and tips for job interviews.
Frequently asked questions around work benefits
Here we’ll look at some of the most asked questions around getting into work benefits.
What benefits can I claim if I’m out of work?
If you are not working you may be able to claim Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance. You will usually need to apply and attend an interview before a claim is approved.
Can I claim benefits if I’m too ill to work?
You may be able to claim Employment and Support Allowance if you are unable to work because of a health condition. There is also a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for some people who are too ill to work.
Am I entitled to Statutory Sick Pay?
If you have a job, you may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). It is available to workers who are employees and those who earn an average of at least £123 per week. It’s available to those who are ill for three days in a row or more.
Conclusion: Taking the next steps towards employment
The UK benefit system is there to help people on low incomes or those not able to work. It is a valuable lifeline to those who need it and it can offer a little extra financial help.
If you meet the criteria – you are looking for a job or to work more hours – these benefits are available for you to claim. There is also help for those wanting to learn new skills and to change jobs, such as through the National Careers Service.