Universal Credit and Self Employment

[craigers]

Hi folks

 

Formerly received housing benefit but after moving house was told we`d have to reapply so decided to try the UC route instead.

 

How does UC work with the self employed with regards to looking for work/sanctions? The missus is self employed doing sales and earns a pitiful sum from it. Would UC force her to increase her sales or look for work under threat of sanctions?

 

She is a hair stylist to trade but since the birth of our youngest refuses to use her skills unless she opens up her own salon or learns to drive so she can offer a mobile service, but financially we cannot afford to do either. Would there be support from DWP/other agencies through UC to set up a salon, and would there be any requirement to earn more/look for work whilst in the process of setting up a salon/etc?

 

TIA

[Lapsed Workaholic]

The following links explains UC for the Self Employed:

 

https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/universal-credit-for-the-self-employed

To answer your question specifically the DWP have ways of making UC claimants who are self employed toe the line.

What counts as gainful self-employment?

 

To count as gainful, your self-employment must be organised, developed and regular and you must expect to make a profit. It should also be your main job.

At the gateway interview, you’ll need to provide evidence of your self-employed activity, for example your business plan, copies of invoices and receipts, or trading accounts from the previous year.

If the assessors decide that you are not gainfully self-employed you’ll need to look for and be available for other work instead.

[craigers]

Great! That`s us f**ked because of her selfishness and snobbishness. Cheers, babe!

[Lapsed Workaholic]

One consolation, at least you've got each other.

[brassnecked]

Might be better to re apply for HB and Council tax benefit thgen, to prevent arrears building up