Updated 19 July 2011
Online services for customers
On this page:
Jobseeker’s Allowance online
Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) online is now available on Directgov as a simple way for customers to apply for contribution-based JSA and income-based JSA.
Over 400,000 customers have so far successfully applied for JSA online. We recognise that the online service will not be for everyone, so customers will still be able to claim JSA using existing channels.
- Apply for JSA online (Directgov)
- JSA online customer journey (564KB)
(July 2011)
In the same transaction customers can also:
- claim Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit online
- make a referral to Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission.
Rapid Reclaim customers can now apply using the online service and should be encouraged to do so.
Whilst the great majority of customers can claim online the following customers will need to telephone Jobcentre Plus to apply:
- people aged under 18
- people without a National Insurance Number
- people with appointees.
Customers also can get help and support with their job searching, CV writing and interview techniques by going to the jobseeking pages on Directgov.
- Use our jobseekers support online (Directgov)
Benefits adviser
The Benefits Adviser Service gives customers online advice on which benefits, pensions and credits they might be entitled to, with an estimate of what amount of benefit they may get. Customers can also input "what if" scenarios for advice if their situation may change, such as the impact of taking work on their benefit entitlement.
The online calculator provides details of up to 28 benefits that the customer may be entitled to, including:
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance
- Pension Credit.
Customers can use the adviser in complete privacy, without giving their name or address. They simply answer questions about themselves, such as their savings, income and outgoings. Help your customers find out more by putting the following link on your website www.direct.gov.uk/benefitsadviser
Customer quotes
"I have used the benefits adviser - this is a very good way of finding out about benefits entitlement."
"The benefit calculator was simple and very helpful!"
"I found this page extremely helpful and saved me a phone call, thank you."
Help customers get online
Although a high percentage of our customers have regular access to the internet, some do not have the necessary IT skills to search or apply for a job online, or use DWP’s other digital services. For free training and advice customers can be referred to UK Online or Learn Direct to find facilities in their local area.
UK Online (England only) 0800 77 1234
LearnDirect (Wales) 0800 101 901
LearnDirect (Scotland) 0808 100 9000
