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Working single mum and giving it up. What benefits am I entitled to?

5 replies

GetToFalkirk · 05/04/2012 09:58

My sil is a single parent and currently works part time. She is in the situation where she cannot afford to work anymore (petrol etc) and wants to give it up. Her dilemma is that she worries that she will not be entitled to benefits as she will be giving up her job. I believe that if you are a lone parent with a child under 5, you do not HAVE to work.
Could someone advise?

OP posts:
sharron6970 · 06/04/2012 11:29

Hi, found this on directgov.co.uk. Hope it helps!
Changes expected to happen in 2012
From 21 May 2012, if your youngest child is aged five or over, or will become five that year, your Income Support may stop during that year.
What happens when your Income Support stops
Jobcentre Plus will contact you before your Income Support is due to stop to tell you when your last payment is due. Jobcentre Plus will also invite you to an interview with an adviser, who will explain what you need to do to make a claim for another benefit if you have not found paid work.

It is very important that you attend this interview so that you continue to receive the right benefits and financial support if you need it.
Making a claim to benefit as a lone parent
Most lone parents, with a youngest child of seven or over, making a new or repeat claim, are no longer entitled to Income Support only on the grounds of being a lone parent.

From 21 May 2012 this will be extended to most lone parents with a youngest child of five or over.
Other benefits which you may be entitled to
If you have not found work when your Income Support ends, or if you need to make a new claim as a lone parent, you will be able to apply for either Jobseeker's Allowance or Employment and Support Allowance.

Jobseeker's Allowance is the main benefit for people who are out of work. To receive it, you must be available for and actively looking for work. As a lone parent with a youngest child aged 12 or under, you have the right to restrict the hours you are available to work. This means that you will not be expected to work outside your child?s normal school hours. Your adviser will be able to provide you with more information.

Regards,
Sharron

Gumby · 06/04/2012 11:32

In this climate I'd tell her to stick with it
She will find it hard to get another job when her ds is older

victorialucas · 06/04/2012 11:33

She will get income support, child tax credit, housing and council tax benefit.

GetToFalkirk · 11/04/2012 13:34

Thanks for your help Sharron, that's really reassuring.

OP posts:
imrie1985 · 17/10/2014 18:43

Hi I'm a single mum ma wee girl has just turned 2 a finish up work next Friday can anyone help on the benefits a will receive, I am leaving get due to childcare issues and plan on returning either full time or part time when she starts school or nursery I Have been told I will b better off but getting mixed messages

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