To work or not to work?

[ilovemybum]

Hey everyone. Been a long time lurker and very little poster.

Ok. I'm 27 and have a beautiful DS who is 15 months. I am currently not working as my old job was commission based and wasn't guaranteed income. I am currently receiving housing benefit, income support, child tax credit and child benefit.
I want to go back to work but I'm confused about it all. I know I will receive 70% payment of my DS's child care but how does working and benefits work?
Does working tax credit equal more than the income support I'm currently receiving? Will my housing benefit change?

Is anyone else in the same position as me that can offer any advice or shed any light on this? Thank you in advance

I am definitely better off working.

it is rare that you wouldn't be better off working - although if you're earning at the lower end of things (minimum wage) and incur high travel costs and childcare costs, you could find yourself slightly worse off.

Your benefits will reduce according to what you earn. But tax credits will hang on in there for a while and yes, there is also support with childcare. It is impossible for anyone to tell you what your indivdiual situation might look like - you could try putting in your information into a benefits calculator. The one on turn2us.org.uk is known for being pretty accurate.

Also perhaps consider further education. I think there are program's and schemes out there designed to help single parents, and if you go back to work there is no harm in doing so armed with credentials that could increase your earning potential. Have a think on the sorts of things you might enjoy doing, that would suit your single parent status. You still have a big future ahead of you, go out and get it!