Jobseeker's Allowance
Jobseeker’s Allowance is the main benefit for people who are out of work. Although the conditions may be relaxed under certain circumstances, to get Jobseeker’s Allowance a person must:
- be actively looking for work
- be able (and available) to work for at least 40 hours a week.
- attend a Jobcentre at least once every 2 weeks to ensure they have been looking for work and that nothing has changed that could affect their claim for Jobseeker’s Allowance.
The role of healthcare professionals
If a patient is unable to fulfil any of the above conditions for benefit as a result of ill health, Jobcentre Plus may request a medical certificate for verification purposes. The patient will usually ask their GP to complete a Med 3 in these circumstances.
Useful links
- Jobseeker's Allowance – information for customers (Jobcentre Plus website)