Benefits

Q1 I am 16 years old and have no job. I am not
in school or any form of education. Can I
claim any benefits?

A1 16 and 17 year olds usually get benefits
unless they are available for work-based
training for young people.

You must first register for work and training
with the Careers Service. You will only
qualify for income-based jobseekers allowance
if you fall into a specific category. If you
do not you may be entitled to Jobseekers
Allowance under the severe hardship rules.

You will be eligible for income support in
your own right if you fall into one of the
categories of people who can claim, e.g.

· You are incapable of work because of
illness or disability.

· You are a lone parent caring for a child
under 16 (this list is not exhaustive)

If you are not living at home you can claim
Hardship Allowance. If you are still living
with your parents then no you cannot.