How to claim 'new style' Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA): step by step  

You might be eligible for ‘new style’ JSA to help you when you look for work.  

Step 1: Check if you're eligible 

• Check if you're eligible (external link) 

You might also be eligible for Universal Credit. 

Step 2: Make a claim and arrange an interview 

After you claim you'll be contacted within 3 working days to arrange your Jobcentre Plus interview. Your interview will usually be within 7 days.  

You must show you've been looking for work between making your claim and going to your interview.  

Step 3: Attend your Jobcentre Plus interview  

Step 4: Get your payment 

You'll get your first payment within 2 weeks.  

If your claim is turned down or you're only eligible for National Insurance credits, you'll get a letter within 2 weeks explaining what to do next. 

Step 5: Prove you're looking for work 

To keep getting JSA you must follow the agreement you signed at your interview, and report what you’re doing to Jobcentre Plus. 

Step 6: Check when you'll stop getting payments 

You'll be told when your payments are about to stop. If your circumstances do not change, this will be after 182 days.