Working hours: benefits rules - Which benefits are affected by hours worked?
Benefit entitlement can depend on how many hours of paid work you do per week.
- Last reviewed 16 December 2025
Which benefits are affected by hours worked?
The following Eligibility depends on the amount of income and capital you have. See full definition are affected by how many hours of paid work you and your partner do per week:
Universal Credit is affected by the amount you earn, but not by the number of hours you work. Read more about the Universal Credit rules.
End of Benefits that are being replaced by Universal Credit. See full definition
It is no longer possible to make a claim for Income Support, income-related ESA or income-based JSA. They are being replaced by Univrsal Credit, and will no longer exist as benefits after 31 March 2026.
Was this page helpful?
Tell us the problem
*Required
Thank you
Thank you for your feedback. If you would like to tell us more, please visit our contact us page.
Check benefit entitlement
Find out what means-tested benefits you might be entitled to.
Grants Search
Search our database of grant-giving organisations.
Find an adviser
Search for advice and support services near you.