The UK unemployment rate in June 2021 is 4,7% for people aged 16 or over. Unemployment in London is around 6,8%. These rates are calculated by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
How can you benefit?
Anyone who have been working for at least 6 months and is now unemployed can apply for a 'new style' Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) and other benefits. Estimates of the benefit can be calculated using the benefit calculator. You can claim benefits online through DirectGov and Job Centre Plus.
To apply, you will need to show your:
- National Insurance number
- bank number and account details
- employment information regarding the past 6 months, including employer contact details and working period
- private pension statement letter
Notice that you cannot apply for contribution-based or income-based JSA anymore. If you're currently getting contribution-based or income-based JSA, you'll keep getting payments while you're eligible until your claim ends.
If you have resigned from a previous job, you will have to fill a specific form to explain the reasons of your leave.
Who is eligible to get them?
To be eligible for ‘new style' Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) you will need to have both:
- Worked as an employee.
- Paid Class 1 National Insurance contributions, usually in the last 2 to 3 years (National Insurance credits can also count)
You will not be eligible if you were self-employed and only paid Class 2 National Insurance contributions unless you were working as a share fisherman or a volunteer development worker.
- People who are available for, capable of, and actively seeking work
- Aged 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you're 16 or 17 - contact Jobcentre Plus for advice) but be below State Pension age
- Working less than 16 hours per week on average at the moment
- Live within Great Britain
- Not be in full-time education.
- Not have an illness or disability which stops you from working.
- Have the right to work in the UK
How to Claim a Benefit
Apply for the 'new style' Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) - unemployment benefits – is easier than never.
You can both, apply online or contact JobcentrePlus (note that you cannot apply online if you are under 18).
If you cannot apply online or you are aged 16 to 17, contact Jobcentre Plus.
Jobcentre Plus
Telephone: 0800 055 6688
Textphone: 0800 023 4888
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 055 6688
Video relay service for British Sign Language (BSL) users - check you can use the service
Welsh language: 0800 012 1888
Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm
Find out about call charges
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They will then inform you what benefits you are eligible for and then start processing your application. Each individual's eligibility and ampount of benefit awarded depends on lots of factors. Be prepared for some paperwork!