“In recent months a number of people have been unsuccessful in getting Employment and Support Allowance, due to medical grounds not being met. Many of these people now have to claim Jobseeker’s Allowance until they find a job.

Here are some top tips to help you with benefits when you go back to work.”

1. A Welfare Benefits Advisor can help with a benefits check when you are looking to return to work
   The advisor will be able to help you make sense of your finances. They can give advice on new benefits or tax credits that you may be able to claim if you return to work.
2. Don’t forget, some benefits may continue for a short time, even when you return to work
   Housing and Council Tax benefits, plus mortgage interest help is available within Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support and Employment Support Allowance and can sometimes run for four weeks after you start work.
3. Don’t assume that you will no longer be entitled to help with rent or Council Tax when you return to work
   Both of these benefits can sometimes be paid in part. You might not get help with all your rent or Council Tax, but you might receive a part payment.
4. ‘Permitted work’ is a great way for disabled people to try work out
   Some Incapacity Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance claimants can earn up to £95 through their ‘permitted work’ in some circumstances.
   Firstly, see your Jobcentre Plus advisor to find out if your circumstances allow you to or not.
5. Talk to your Jobcentre Plus personal advisor about any additional help that might be available
   For example, help with interview costs, New Enterprise Allowance, In Work Credit, Return to Work Credit and grant may be available if you meet certain criteria.
6. Check out your entitlement to Tax Credits
   Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit are the main benefits you can claim when returning to work.
7. Get support with childcare Working Tax Credit can include childcare elements.
8. If you are offered Childcare Vouchers, always seek advice
   The Vouchers offered as part of Tax Credit don’t always mean that you will be better off. Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs website has a benefits calculator, so you can figure out if it is best for you to use them. Go to www.hmrc.gov.uk, click on Tax Credits and the link is on the right-hand side.

If you would like to speak to one of our Benefits Advisors call us on 0300 303 2500