Question about 18 year old and benefits

[womanofdulwich]

If child benefit ends at the end of August, and ( hopefully) your teenager is off to uni in October, if they can't find a job in September does anyone know if they are entitled to any benefits such as child benefit or some kind of job seekers allowance?

Thanks.

[Helen GV]

hmm not sure, perhaps try the citizens advice bureau website?

[espelli]

They may have changed the rules now, but I signed on for jobseekers allowance. I was given income support because I hadn't paid enough National Insurance to be on jobseekers. This was many years ago so may have changed, but they will be able to tell you at the job centre. I seem to remember going there first and filling in the form.

[Narnia]

Probably JSA but without the I'm off to Uni next month bit so don't really want to work in a 'permanent' job. I thought Uni started in September? If he/she wants to earn some money I'd suggest trying to get some and signing on as a last resort. Presumably they are available for work before September.

[womanofdulwich]

My thoughts exactly Narnia- unpaid work experience in August all well and good, but he could earn some money in September-watch this spot.

[njc97]

Don't think you can get JSA (or equivalent) if you're off to University nowadays. You certainly couldn't when I was that age (10+ years ago), unlike when my parents were in the same situation. As my dad said to me when I was looking for a temporary job before going to uni - "Son, when are you going to grow up? I'd signed on twice by the time I was your age...."

[loopylou22]

You can probably get up to date advice at www.direct.gov.uk and I'm sure there are online forms you can fill in that will tell you what your entitled to and what you can apply for.

Hope that helps xx