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Jobseeker's Allowance

Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) is a benefit for unemployed people who are looking for work. You can claim JSA if all of these apply to you:

You must also be:

There are two types of JSA, contribution-based and income-based. Which one you get depends on whether you've paid enough National Insurance contributions (NICs) in the past.

Contribution-based Jobseeker's Allowance

You build up your entitlement to contribution-based JSA by paying NICs when you're employed. If you didn't earn enough to pay NICs, you may still get contribution-based JSA if you were given NIC credits. This would have happened if you were earning more than the lower earnings limit (£90 a week in 2008-2009 and £95 a week for 2009-2010), if you were unemployed or unable to work because of illness, and in some other circumstances.

• Find out more about NICs
• Check current NIC rates on HMRC website Opens new window

Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance

If you're on a low income, you may still get JSA even if you haven't paid any NICs. How much you get is affected by things like your partner's income, any savings you have and if you're looking after children.

Jobseeker's Allowance if you're 16 or 17

If you're unemployed and 16 or 17 years old, you can't usually get JSA unless:

If any of these applies, you may be able to get income-based JSA.

Find out more about Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)

You can find out more about JSA on the Jobcentre Plus website. If you want to speak to someone, contact your local Jobcentre Plus, Jobcentre or social security office. You can find contact details in the phone book or on the Jobcentre Plus website.

• Jobseeker's Allowance
• Find out more about JSA from Jobcentre Plus Opens new window
• Contact Jobcentre Plus Opens new window

The New Deal scheme

New Deal is a government scheme that helps you get back to work if you're on benefit. You'll get help and support with all aspects of job hunting - from working out your long term goals to job training and brushing up your interview technique. There are New Deal programmes for:

More about New Deal

You can read more about each New Deal programme on the Jobcentre Plus website.

• Find the right New Deal programme Opens new window

Other benefits you may be able to claim

You may be able to claim other benefits while you look for work if you're:

You can get advice about benefits from your local Jobcentre Plus office. Find your nearest one in the phone book or search for it on the Jobcentre Plus website.

• Contact Jobcentre Plus Opens new window
• Looking for work (employment section)

More useful links

• 'Employed or looking for work' benefits information
• Information and advice if you're looking for work (employment section)