Questions about Benefits

My circumstances have changed - what should I do?

You should tell us straight away if something changes that may affect your benefit.

For example, tell us if you or your partner:

• move home, (or other people move in or leave your home)
• change the account we pay benefits into
• work more or fewer hours
• become ill, or
• get more or less of other benefits.

If you are not sure whether to tell us about a change, contact Jobcentre Plus and do it anyway. If you don't, you could lose out on money you should get. Or you could be paid too much, and have to pay it back.

What benefits am I entitled to and how do I claim them?

We regret that we are currently unable to give individual benefit advice online from this website.

To enquire about, or apply for, benefits you should contact your local Jobcentre Plus office. Find the address and telephone number for your local office. I have been made redundant - what should I do?

You should contact Jobcentre Plus as soon as possible. You may be eligible to claim Jobseekers Allowance, which is the benefit paid to people who are available and actively seeking work. You will also receive assistance with your search for a new job. To make a claim for benefit call 0800 055 6688 (8am-6pm Monday - Friday). A textphone service is available if you have a speech or hearing impairment 0800 023 4888.

I’ve made a claim to benefit but haven’t heard anything yet - what should I do?

You should contact Jobcentre Plus to find out what is happening, and if there is anything you can do to help speed up the process.

Why haven’t I received my benefit payment?

You should contact Jobcentre Plus. They will be able to check the relevant computer system(s) and determine the cause of the delay. They will also advise you what to do next.

Where can I find out more information about a particular benefit?

A general guide to benefits that customers of working age may be able to get from Jobcentre Plus, can be found in the A to Z of Benefits and Allowances.