Work Trials

[joeblogs]

Looking for advise please. I have been unemployed since July 2009 and in receipt of IB JSA, Housing and Council Tax Benefit. I have been offered a job on a four week trial basis. Trouble is, I am worried about coming off benefit, especially at this time of the year with Christmas almost upon us, only to have to go back on benefit if the trial basis is not sucessful. My question is, do I have to be unemployed for 6 months or more to go on a Work Trial. If this is the case and I cannot go on a Work Trial and I accept the job, would I be able to fast track my claim should the job cease after the 4 week period?

Also, I am single, working 20 hours per week, would I be entitled to Tax Credits?

Last question, is there any financial help towards returning back to work.

 

Thanks for your advice. Joe

[ErikaPNP]

You could do a "rapid reclaim" if your work trial doesn't pan out to permanent employment.

 

You wouldn't be entitled to working tax credit as you are working below 30 hours. (unless you are disabled, in which case you would receive WTC after 16 hours).

 

You won't be entitled to financial assistance for returning to work as you have not been in receipt of benefit for the qualifying period.