Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) - What is Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)?
Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) is for people who are not in full time work, and can and want to work.
- Last reviewed 12 December 2025
What is Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)?
Jobseeker's Allowance is a benefit for people who are not in full-time employment (work less than 16 hours per week), are capable of working and are looking for work.
If your working pattern varies or you need help to calculate how many hours you work, visit our Working hours guide for more information.
There are two types of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Contributory/New Style JSA and Income-based JSA. Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance is being replaced by Universal Credit.
Applies to: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales
Age rules: you must be under 66 and usually aged over 18 to qualify.
If you are aged 16/17 - visit our section for Young People (aged 16/17) for information about claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance as a young person.
Type of benefit:
- Contributory/New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance is non Eligibility depends on the amount of income and capital you have. See full definition
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance is Eligibility depends on the amount of income and capital you have. See full definition
Taxable: Yes
Administered by: Government department that is responsible for employment and welfare See full definition , Government department in Northern Ireland that is responsible for benefits. See full definition
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