Confused about benefits
Question
I've just been awarded Disability Living Allowance and I'm about to sign on for Jobseeker's Allowance.
I live in rented accommodation and I currently get Housing Benefit of £60 per week. I have to pay a further £20 per week myself.
Please can you tell me how much Jobseeker's Allowance I am likely to get - will I get Income Support and will they be any increase in my housing benefit?
Answer
Disability Living Allowance has a care component and a mobility component. Some people will be entitled to receive just one component; others may get both. All figures below are for 2008.
Claiming Disability Living Allowance (DLA) could have a positive effect on your other benefits. For example, if you get awarded JSA you could get £46.85 (for people aged 18-24) plus a disability premium of £25.85. Your Housing Benefit might also increase. However, if you do start to receive Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) you will not be able to get Income Support .
Benefits can be complicated, so it's a good idea to speak to an expert. You can call the Benefits Enquiry Line on 0800 88 22 00, 8.30 am to 6.30 pm Monday to Friday and 9.00 am to 1.00 pm Saturday.
Also, as you are signing on for JSA, your personal adviser should make arrangements for you to see one of their disability specialists who will help you get into work.
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