How to claim 'new style' Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA): step by step
You might be eligible for ‘new style’ JSA to help you when you look for work.
Step 1: Check if you're eligible
You might also be eligible for Universal Credit.
Step 2: Make a claim and arrange an interview
After you claim you'll be contacted within 3 working days to arrange your Jobcentre Plus interview. Your interview will usually be within 7 days.
You must show you've been looking for work between making your claim and going to your interview.
Step 3: Attend your Jobcentre Plus interview
Step 4: Get your payment
You'll get your first payment within 2 weeks.
If your claim is turned down or you're only eligible for National Insurance credits, you'll get a letter within 2 weeks explaining what to do next.
Step 5: Prove you're looking for work
To keep getting JSA you must follow the agreement you signed at your interview, and report what you’re doing to Jobcentre Plus.
Step 6: Check when you'll stop getting payments
You'll be told when your payments are about to stop. If your circumstances do not change, this will be after 182 days.