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Jobseeker's Allowance

Jobseeker's Allowance is the main benefit for most people over the age of 18 who are unemployed or work less than 16 hours every week, not in education and looking for work.

If you're under age 18, or if you're a student, it's unlikely you will be entitled to the allowance. Jobseeker's Allowance isn't normally paid to 16 or 17 year olds, except in certain circumstances.

If you do claim JSA because of estrangement, remember that the more information you give Jobcentre Plus about the breakdown of your family relationship, the quicker they can make a decision. You can also ask another adult who knows about your situation to go with you to your interview, and your parents won't be told about your meeting unless you want them to be.

How to make a claim

Call into your nearest Jobcentre Plus office.

Call Jobcentre Plus on Freephone 0800 055 66 88 or Textphone 0800 023 48 88, between 8am-6pm Monday to Friday.