Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I might be starting work - how this will affect my benefits?
You may still be entitled to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit if you work. If you are thinking of starting work but are unsure of how much rent and council tax you might have to pay, you can use the Benefit Calculator to give you an estimate.
If you start a new job, or increase your hours or wages and stop receiving benefits, you may continue to get Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit paid at the same rate for the first four weeks of your new work arrangements.
This extra benefit is known as an 'extended payment' or Housing Benefit 'run on'.
To qualify you must have been getting Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Contributory Employment and Support Allowance, Severe Disablement Allowance or Incapacity Benefit for at least 26 weeks before the change in your working circumstances.
For us to decide whether you qualify for an extended payment, you must tell us about your new job or the increase in hours or pay.
For advice about which other benefits you may qualify for while working, use the Benefits Adviser on the Directgov website.
