Recently had twins and don’t want to return to work, will I still get UC

[Twin2Mum95]

Recently had twins and dont want to return back to work after maternity leave.. partner works full time (35+ hours) and we currently get UC. If I didn’t return back to work would I still get help from UC or expected to find childcare and go back to work. If expected to go back to work could I work 15-20 hours and still get help from UC? Would it be a significant lose from UC either way? Help

Here is a table that explains how the age of your children affects your claim.

The picture is under review. Basically, under 1, you don't have to do anything. 1-2 you will have appointments. 2-3, you'll have to update your CV. 3-12, you'll have to work for up to 30 hours, but with younger children you'll be able to limit your available work hours for childcare/school collection needs.

Blimey!

Useful little table.

Won't the fact that you have voluntarily given up your job cause issues with the DWP? I'm not entirely sure in your situation but I know that if you claim UC after resigning then unless you have a good reason for resigning UC can sanction you.

Thankyou! This is really helpful!

This is exactly what I’m worried about/thinking. I wouldn’t be able to afford childcare costs for both babies and don’t have family/friends around that could help me so I don’t know whether this is a good enough reason to ‘voluntarily quit’

This is what I thought too?

no, young children are a valid reason. I was able to leave my job when they couldnt accommodate what I needed to work with childcare needs, and it was about 4 months before I found and started a job that could. There were no sanctions from UC as my child was 1.

(People will complain about that, but parents haven't set the rules!)

Remember that if you’re working the babies will be entitled to 30 hours free childcare now. Not that i necessarily believe that is particularly helpful to the babies themselves.

UC shouldn't be a choice.

If you have a working partner presumably you reach the earnings threshold as a couple and can therefore be on a light touch UC regime? Which unless things have changed would mean you don't have to work even when the kids are older.