Resolved Question

Question about benefits.?

OK. I am thinking about going self employed, but before I do so I need to know if I can get any benefits if things arnt working out at first. I dont want to be in the situation where I am spending all my money on getting the business up and running, but not getting anything to live on.

Can I get job seekers allowence? How about housing and council tax benefits. What would I be entitled to and how would it work out?

Thanks in advance.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

if ur self employed u can still claim working/child tax credits and housing/council tax benefit. u r asked to give an estimate of yr income for the first 13 weeks and the figures are based on that then they review it up or down depending on yr income. i went self employed after being on income support for a couple of years (due to having to be full time carer for my mum) i got all of those benefits plus £40 in work credit for a year and £200 back to work grant but u have to have been on income support for a year i think to qualify for these. good luck.

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Other Answers (3)

• You will be able to claim Working Tax Credits. If you say that you are working over 36 hours a week, and earning small amounts initially, then you will get WTC. If you are claiming WTC, you are entitled to Housing Benefits. Good luck with you new business.
• Yes you can apply for a certificate of small earnings off HM Revenue and Customs. This may entitle you to some sort of small benefit. You can check out their website for further information on self employment and help and advice that they offer.
• You are best checking on DirectGov.I know you can't claim tax credits