Go On JSA Or Stay On Tax Credits?

Hi all,

I've just signed up here and it's my first (probably of many!) post.

I've worked freelance for a company for over 6 years and on the 10th of Dec, I was told I would have no work until February, but this is not guaranteed.

I may well have work then, but I don't think it will be as regular an income as it once was, more scraps of money here and there. So I'm looking for a more stable job at present.

The problem I'm having right now is, I signed up for JSA on the 10th of Dec and my claim is live. However, because I have a 4-week run on with my working/child tax credits, ending on the 7th of Jan, I am not entitled to any JSA right now.

I am wondering if it is even worth my while going on JSA, or just staying on working/child tax credits until I find another job.

I have applied for housing benefit, but still not received anything from them as the fact I am on this tax credits run on has caused them some confusion. And I imagine if I am to then transfer to JSA after the 7th, it'll get even more tricky for them.

Would I be entitled to pretty much the same amount of housing/council tax benefit if I stayed on tax credits (£147 per week child and working combined) or would I be better off going on JSA?

I'm pretty confident I can find a job in January, I'll do most things so I'm really not picky!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated... Thanks

Coming soon... Priority debt help!