How do I claim Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)?
When you make a claim for Jobseeker’s Allowance, JobCentre Plus will first decide whether you are entitled to any contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, then they will look at whether you can get any income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance.
In England, Scotland or Wales
Claim online by going to the Gov.UK website (link opens in a new window), go down the page and click on "Claim JSA online"
Or phone Jobcentre Plus to make a claim:
In Northern Ireland
Contact your local Social Security/Jobs and Benefits Office for a claim form (link opens in a new window)
What documents will I need to claim Jobseeker’s Allowance?
You must give your national insurance number and evidence of who you are, for example, a driving licence or birth certificate. You normally also have to give your partner's national insurance number if they live with you. You also have to give evidence of your income and savings, for example, bank statements or pay slips.
When will my Jobseeker’s Allowance claim begin?
There is a 7 day period between claiming and being able to get Jobseeker’s Allowance, these are called waiting days. Exceptions apply.
A claim for Jobseeker's Allowance can be backdated for up to three months before the date of the claim if you would have been entitled to it earlier. You have to have an acceptable reason for claiming late. Request this when claiming.
Postal Sign On
If you sign on for your Jobseeker's Allowance by post and experience difficulties with this (for example, your postal declaration is not received and as a result your benefit is stopped ) you should immediately seek advice from an experienced benefits adviser . To find local advice providers in your area you can use our Find an Adviser tool.
Change of circumstances
You must report changes in circumstance which might affect your entitlement to this benefit