Guidance on New Style Jobseeker's Allowance eligibility and claims

Guidance explains who can get New Style JSA, how long it is paid, and how to apply. It sets out eligibility based on Class 1 National Insurance and how it interacts with Universal Credit.

New Style Jobseeker's Allowance is a fortnightly contribution based payment for people who are unemployed or work less than 16 hours a week on average. It can be claimed on its own or at the same time as Universal Credit. If you get both, New Style JSA counts as income for Universal Credit.

Your savings and your partner’s savings do not affect New Style JSA. Earnings and any pension payments may affect the amount. While receiving it you are awarded Class 1 National Insurance credits.