What Benefits Am I Entitled To? (Details follow)

Question

I currently work less than 30 hours a week and earn under £10k per year.

I live with a friend in rented accommodation and together we earn about £22k per year.

My friend is starting a University course in September (for which she already has loans and grants) and I am starting a BTec Level 3 National Certificate course at college in September, also.

I would like to know if I (or we) am entitled to any kind of benefits. I do currently receive an Adult Learning Grant payment of £30 a week, which shall start in September.

But as we are struggling to make ends meet at home and not having the time to work more hours, I need to know if we can get money from the government.

Any ideas guys? Thanks.

Answer 1

Basically if it is a full time course ie over 16hrs per week you are not entitled to claim jobseekers allowance unless you can prove that you are available and actively seeking employment of at least 40hrs per week. If you are receiving allowances or bursaries from college or any other agency i would contact your local housing authority to ask if you are entitled to housing benefit and council tax benefit. Other than that look on directgov.co.uk cos i'm sure i read something about a new student allowance on there recently. If you are over 25yrs it may be worth your while contacting Tax Credits cos if your over 25 earning a low income you may be entitled to something.

Answer 2

job seekers allowence

Answer 3

I don't think there's much more you can claim, although you may be entitled to a student loan.  Go and see Citizens Advice.  They have a computer program that works out which benefits you should claim and how much you're entitled to.

Answer 4

You may be able to get some housing benefit allowance to help with the rent. You both sound like hardworking people who are trying to better yourselves. I hope you will get something to help.

Answer 5

Your friend is getting "loans and grants" you are getting a grant and you want more money from us taxpayers.

Do what other students do and get part time jobs