With the rise of living expenses, job uncertainty, and the cost of accommodation, an increasing number of people are finding it difficult to cope in the UK. If you find yourself unemployed, having a low income, or having just lost your job, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a support package update for 2025 for you. This could bring you around £996 per month, depending on personal circumstance.
This guide will take you through every aspect of the package, the potential amount you could receive, who is eligible, and how to apply.
Summary Table: DWP Jobseeker Support Worth £996/Month
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Types | Universal Credit, New Style JSA, Housing Support, Council Tax Reduction |
| Monthly Value | Up to £996+ depending on circumstances |
| Eligibility | UK residents over 18, under State Pension age, with low income or savings below £16,000 |
| Application Method | Online via GOV.UK |
| Official Website | Universal Credit – GOV.UK, JSA – GOV.UK |
Discounts of the Benefits
1. Universal Credit
- Amount: £400.14 per month (standard rate for over 25)
- Eligibility: Age 18+, below state pension age, living in the UK with savings of less than £16,000
- Payment Frequency: Monthly
- Covering: Basic living costs, housing element if relevant, and additional supports for children, disabilities, and caring
2. New style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Amount: £368.20 per month (for over 25s)
- Eligibility: Must have enough National Insurance contribution for 2 out of the last 3 to qualify; not means-tested
- Payment Frequency: Fortnightly
- Duration: Paid for up to 182 days (around 6 months)
3. Help with Housing Costs
- Amount: Depends on location, family size, and rent (e.g. up to £228+ a month)
- Eligibility: Based on income, rent, and personal situation
- How It Works: Usually included with your Universal Credit claim or via local authority
4. Council Tax Reduction
- Amount: Different depending; may substantially reduce your council tax bill
- Eligibility: Based on income of the household, number of dependents, and housing status
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility depends on which benefit you are applying for:
- Universal Credit: 18 years and older, not in full-time education, on low income or unemployed & having savings not more than £16,000
- New Style JSA: Similarly for UC, but NI contributions must be paid. This benefit is not affected by savings and partner income.
- Housing and CT Support: Based on your income and obligation of paying rent and family structure
- Note: You can claim Universal Credit as well as New Style JSA provided you qualify.
How to Apply
- Check Eligibility: Use the free Benefits Calculator available on Turn2us to determine what benefits you qualify for.
- Apply online: Go to GOV.UK, create an account, and apply for your Universal Credit or JSA. You will need your:
- National Insurance number;
- Email address and phone number;
- Bank details;
- Information on your employment and income;
- Jobcentre Interview: For your submitted Universal Credit claim, you will go on and attend an appointment where you’ll agree on a “Claimant Commitment” regarding job search activity.
- Track Progress: Track the progress on your claim through your Universal Credit journal or simply call DWP.
Payment Timeline
- Universal Credit: Usually the first payment takes 5 weeks and is given monthly thereafter.
- JSA: Paid every 2 weeks.
Should the need arise for financial support before that first Universal Credit payment, an Advance Payment can be made available.
Other Possible Support
- Budgeting Advances: No-interest loans for emergencies that are paid back out of UC payments.
- Help with Childcare: Covers up to 85% of childcare costs while working or studying.
- Free Health Costs and Prescriptions: May be available depending on income and benefit status.
- Local Welfare Schemes: Some councils offer top-ups in food or fuel grants or grants for furniture.
Real-Life Examples
Tom, 29, Manchester
Tom has recently lost the retail job. His current income thus far consists of:
- Universal Credit- £400/month
- New Style JSA- £368/month
- Housing Help- £220/month
- Total Monthly Assistance- £998
Mia, 33, Single Mom, London
Mia works part-time and is a single mother. Her sources of income are:
- Universal Credit- £400
- Child Support- £800
- Housing Help- £850
- Childcare Reimbursement- £500
- Total Monthly Support- £2,550
Daniel, 58, Unemployed, Midlands
Daniel is unemployed with no savings being accrued recently.
- Universal Credit- £400
- New Style JSA- £368
- Council Tax Reduction + Budgeting Loan- £282 (approx.)
- Total Monthly Support- £1,050
FAQs:
How much is Universal Credit in 2025?
The standard allowance for a single person over 25 is £400.14 per month, with possible additions for housing, children, or disabilities.
What is New Style JSA?
A non-means-tested benefit for people who’ve paid sufficient National Insurance in the past 2–3 years.
How long can I receive JSA?
New Style JSA is paid for up to 182 days (6 months).
Can I get both JSA and Universal Credit?
Yes, if you’re eligible. JSA will count as income toward your Universal Credit payment.
