Benefits available when going back to work

Your benefits will not necessarily stop when you go back to work, you can still apply for in-work benefits.

When you work less than 16 hours per week

• You will still get Income Support/JSA and housing benefit
• But if you are earning more than £20 per week your income support/JSA or housing benefit will be reduced according to the amount you are earning.

When you work more than 16 hours per week

• Most single parents are better off if they go back to work over 16 hours a week
• You can apply for child tax credit and working tax credit which you get on top of your wages.
• You can get money toward childcare and
• You might still get some housing benefit if your income is low.

How much tax credit will I get if I go back to work?

• It depends how many hours you work and how much you get paid.
• It is very important to find out the amount tax credits you will get before you take a job, you can do this by calling 0800 300 3900.

‘Most single parents prefer to work over 16 hours so that they can get tax credits, many single parents are better off once they start work however full time work can be stressful and leave little time to be with their family, part time work is usually a good balance.’

Caroline - One Space Career Coach

What is In Work Credit? (IWC)

• It is an extra £40 a week and you will get it for 52 weeks

Can I get it?

• You must have been claiming Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance or Incapacity benefit for more than 52 weeks
• You must go back to work for more than 16 hours a week
• You must claim within five weeks of starting work
• You must have a child under 16
• You must have a job that will last over 5 weeks
• You musty apply for IWC at your job centre.

Remember if you get IWC you could be a lot better off but it will stop after one year, think about how you will manage after the IWC has stopped.

To find local services in your area that offer benefits advice visit Your Local Support & Events