JSA after maternity leave

[bubs12]

Evening, just wondered if any one has had a similar experience?

Basically I couldn't go back to work full time after baby, due to childcare opening hours and costs. I requested to go part time, 24 hours a week. They declined and said no to part time, flexible hours and job sharing. I am now out of work and actively looking for a new job.

Am I able to claim JSA? Or is anyone else in the same boat?

How old is your child? Under 3 and you can claim income support over 3 it's jsa which shouldn't be a problem as you couldn't return to your previous job due to child care reasons

Hi OP: You certainly can claim JSA. I have done this. Depending on your circumstances another benefit might be better though. How old is your DC? Do you have a partner? If so, what does he/she earn?

He is 7mo, partner earns about 22k. This is my first child & I'm clueless about different benefits etc

In that case,
You can claim contributions based JSA for yourself so long as you have a good national insurance record.
Be aware that this will only last 6 months and you will be expected to demonstrate that you are looking for work.
As a couple: you may also be entitled to Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit.
And Child Benefit obviously.
Good luck

Hopefully I won't be on for long! However re the contribution based JSA I only received SMP and therefore paid only pennies towards my NI over the past 9 months. Do they take in previous years contributions? Thanks for your help

It's the last 2 tax years before the current benefit year. So that would be 2015/16 and 2014/15.
If you worked for a reasonable length of time before maternity leave it should be fine.

Thanks for your help. I will give them a ring tomorrow

Good luck with it

If it is your first child you might be entitled to a small amount of child tax credits.

Be prepared that any benefit may be suspended while they contact your employer to hear their version and then come to a decision regarding where you reasonable to resign with no alternative employment. Be on the front foot and have an up to date CV and evidence of your applications, outcomes and feedback.

were not where!