2 years from retiring can i claim UC to get by until then!

[Alicetinker99]

I retire in 2 years time, I work in the care sector which is minimum wage. Im barely making it through month to month- I work unsociable hours, get paid only for the time im with service users so anytime travelling between is unpaid - i wondered if UC would be applicable to assist me until i retire - i completed the application but it says i need to look for more work - im struggling as it is i cant do anymore hours.

Whether you qualify for any Uc will really depend on what earnings you come out with each month in your Uc assessment period and whether you have rent to pay. If you have no health conditions they expect you to be working and earning at least 35 x nmw but if you don't earn that I'm really not sure how much they would push you to look for more especially given you are not far off retirement. How many hours do you currently work?

20 hours a week i actually get paid for so i come out with just over 800 a month. I do have rent to come out of that xx

Ok so you should get some UC. I doubt they will force you to look for more work to be honest.

@Alicetinker99 you need to check if there are any penalties if you resign.

Looking at the other posts, it says you have to look for work of nmw of 35 hours
But you are already working some of this

Suggest look on www.gov.uk and search for universal credit

I would apply, you have nothing to loose !

Put your details in to this calculator
www.entitledto.co.uk/
I'd be interested to know the outcome as I have a friend in a similar situation.

I have done that before and it said im entitiled to i think it was £16 per week - but it said that i would have to agree to work with a coach and find better paid work - i could do more hours i know that but im dead on my feet as it is :(