Jobseeker's Allowance

Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) is an unemployment benefit for people who are looking for work. It's now only possible to make a new claim for New Style JSA.

What is New Style Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)?

New Style JSA (also known as 'contribution-based JSA') is extra money to help you cover your living costs while you're looking for a job. It's based on your National Insurance contributions over the past 2 to 3 years. It can be claimed either on its own or with Universal Credit.

How much you'll get depends on your age. The maximum weekly rate for 2025-26 is up to £92.05.

If you already receive income-based JSA, you can continue to do so but you'll be invited to claim Universal Credit before the end of 2025.

Find out more about eligibility for income-based JSA on GOV.UK

Am I eligible for New Style Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)?

To qualify for New Style JSA, you must have previously worked as an employee and have paid Class 1 National Insurance contributions. You must also:

• be unemployed or working fewer than 16 hours a week
• be under State Pension age
• not be in full-time education
• not have an illness or disability which stops you from working
• be available and actively looking for work
• live in Wales, England or Scotland (there are different rules for Northern Ireland).

How do I claim New Style Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)?

There are a couple of ways you can claim New Style JSA. You can:

• apply online on GOV.UK
• call Jobcentre Plus on 0800 055 6688 if you can't use the online service independently and need help applying.

Later in the application process, you'll have an interview with your local Jobcentre Plus. You can contact them in advance if you need any support because of a disability or health condition.

You can also bring a relative or friend along to your interview for support.

During the interview, your adviser will write out a Jobseeker’s Agreement (also known as a ‘claimant commitment’). In it, you'll set out the type of work you want and agree on the steps you'll take to find a job.

If your adviser feels you’re not keeping to your Jobseeker's Agreement then your benefit could be reduced or stopped altogether.