AIBU to apply for JSA?

[Jobseeker124]

I've name-changed!

I've been in my current position for 6 months. Due to some health issues I cannot continue to work in this specific environment so I need to find alternative suitable work until I've had my operation. I don't know when this will happen, I thought it would be sooner but my current employer is no longer willing to wait as I am still within my probationary period.

I have always worked full time so I would be entitled to contribution based JSA.

My issue is that my partner of many years earns a salary that can cover all costs. However I feel that applying for contribution based JSA will still give me a bit of independence.

FWIW our finances are shared.

I know you'll say this is morally wrong, I just need confirmation...

You should apply, you might not get though.

Claiming ensures that your NI contributions are kept up; on that basis, it’s the sensible thing to do. However, leaving a job voluntarily generally disqualified you from applying for a certain period (I think up to 13 weeks), so you may find you’re not eligible.

Contribution based JSA (if still available in your area) is not affected by his income etc. However, once the contribution based period (used to be 26 weeks) comes to an end, you will be expected to provide his financial details and they will assess how much you get based on his income not just on the amount of time you’ve paid NI. You will likely get no money coming in but will be expected to comply with all the requirements of the job seekers agreement.

Thank you for your replies. I forgot to add that I haven't actually resigned yet. My GP has insisted on signing me off of work until after my operation. I did tell my employer (an extremely large one) that I'd be happy to go without sick pay until I can come back. However, that is not an option.

My probation meeting is next week, I know they'll let me go. I might not even be able to attend due to my symptoms. I will email them beforehand to let them know that I understand if that is the case. I don't wish to put them out for any longer.

In regards to NI contributions, thank you, I didn't even know that was a 'thing'.

I just feel guilty I suppose. I know I will find work within a few weeks or so, that is not an option (personally).

If your employer is letting you go because you can no longer do the job, they are actually dismissing you. Do you want to stay in the job and have they considered alternative arrangements for your health and wellbeing to enable you to do so? If they dismiss you, it won't affect a JSA claim. You'll get JSA immediately.

In my area, it seems to be universal credit, and unless I’ve misunderstood, it’s taking into account any savings you might have, so I’m guessing will factor in other income as well.

In the past I thought contributions based was just contributions based, but that was a long time ago.

If you claim jas, you will have to sign on fortnightly and in some cases weekly, plus provide evidence of job seeking. It can be quite a demoralising experience.