Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) sanctions - Good reason why a Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) sanction should not be applied

‘Good reason’ why a sanction should not be applied

A sanction will not be applied if you can show that you had ‘good reason’ for the action that led to a sanction being considered.

'Good reason' is not defined in legislation. It will depend on your circumstances.

The following are examples of factors which should be taken into account:

• If you are a victim of domestic violence, you can be treated as available for and actively seeking work for up to 13 weeks. Even after that, a fear of domestic violence may mean you have good reason for refusing or leaving employment

• If you have a physical or mental health condition or disorder that meant you were unable to attend a Jobcentre interview, work or work-related activity

• Caring responsibilities that make it unreasonable for you to be available (this should include whether suitable childcare would have been (or was) reasonably available

•  If you are homeless

• If you are a victim of bullying or harassment at work or you left your job because you were a whistleblower.

People with disabilities and carers

If you have a disability or are a carer, you will have good reason for giving up a job or not accepting a job offer if the travelling time would be unreasonable given your caring responsibilities or your health.

You have good reason for giving up or not accepting a job if the travelling time was more than one and a half hours each way.

Updated January 2022