How Much is New Style JSA (Jobseeker’s Allowance) in 2025?
New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance in 2025 is a vital support for those seeking work in the UK. It provides regular payments to eligible jobseekers who meet specific contribution and work-related conditions.
As of April 2025, the weekly rate has increased, offering slightly more financial assistance compared to previous years. This benefit is contribution-based, meaning it relies on your National Insurance record rather than your income or savings.
Whether you are new to claiming or reviewing your eligibility, understanding the updated rates, rules, and claiming process is essential for making the most of this support during your job search journey.
What is New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance?
New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance is a contribution-based unemployment benefit available for up to 182 days. It is designed for individuals who are unemployed or working less than 16 hours per week and actively seeking work.
Payments are made fortnightly and are based on your recent National Insurance contributions, not on your savings or partner’s income.
It differs from older forms of JSA and from Universal Credit, which is means-tested. New Style JSA is intended as a short-term financial support while you look for work, and it comes with specific work search requirements outlined in your Claimant Commitment.
- Available across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
- Can be claimed alone or alongside Universal Credit
- Helps maintain National Insurance credits for future benefits
This benefit offers short-term financial stability while encouraging active job searching. It ensures you stay connected to the job market without your savings or partner’s income affecting eligibility.
How Much Is New Style JSA in 2025?
From 7 April 2025, New Style JSA payments increased to:
- £72.90 per week if you are under 25
- £92.05 per week if you are 25 or over
These amounts are set nationally and apply regardless of your savings, but pension income over £50 per week can reduce your payment. Payments are made every two weeks directly into your bank account.
The rates are reviewed annually and adjusted to reflect inflation and living cost changes. The 2025 increase ensures that claimants receive slightly more financial assistance than in the previous year, helping to offset higher living expenses while they actively look for employment.
Who Can Claim New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance in the UK?
Eligibility for New Style JSA depends on meeting work-related and contribution conditions. You may qualify if you:
- Have worked as an employee and paid Class 1 National Insurance in the last two to three years
- Are aged 18 or over and under State Pension age
- Live in the UK and are available for work
- Work less than 16 hours per week on average
- Are not in full-time education (with limited exceptions)
You will not qualify if you:
- Have a health condition preventing you from working for more than 13 weeks
- Are in a trade dispute with your employer
- Are already claiming Employment and Support Allowance for a long-term illness
Students may be eligible if studying part-time or temporarily out of a course due to illness or caring responsibilities. Full-time students are generally excluded unless specific exceptions apply.
When Are New Style JSA Payments Made in 2025?
Payments are typically made every two weeks into your bank account. The first payment is usually issued within 14 days of your claim being accepted, although delays can occur if further checks are required.
- Regular payment cycles continue until your entitlement ends
- Public holidays may shift payment dates slightly
- Pension deductions are applied before payments are issued
Keeping your bank details up to date is important to avoid delays. Your work coach will confirm your payment schedule when your claim starts.
How to Check If You Can Get New Style JSA?
Before applying, it is important to confirm your eligibility. You can qualify if you:
- Are aged 18 or over and under State Pension age
- Have worked and paid Class 1 National Insurance contributions in the relevant tax years
- Work fewer than 16 hours a week on average
- Are actively looking for work and available to start
You may not qualify if you:
- Are in full-time education without exception
- Have a long-term illness that prevents work
- Have insufficient National Insurance contributions
Online eligibility tools can help assess your situation, but the Department for Work and Pensions makes the final decision.
How Can You Apply for New Style JSA?
Applying for New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance is a straightforward process, but it requires accurate information and supporting documents to avoid delays.
You can choose to apply online, by phone, or through an in-person Jobcentre appointment. The method you choose will depend on your access to the internet, personal preference, and any communication needs you may have.
Applying Online Through the Government Portal
The quickest way to apply is online. You will need to provide:
- Your National Insurance number
- Bank or building society account details
- Employment history for the past six months, including employer contact information
- Details of any personal or occupational pension income
Applying by Phone or Jobcentre Appointment
If you cannot apply online, you can:
- Call the Jobcentre Plus claims line
- Arrange an in-person appointment at your nearest Jobcentre
Once your application is submitted, it is usually processed within 14 days. You will then be invited to attend an interview where you will agree on your Claimant Commitment with your work coach.
How Long Can You Claim Contribution-Based JSA?
Contribution-based JSA can be claimed for up to 182 days, which is roughly six months. This period is based on your National Insurance record and is intended as temporary support while you actively look for work.
You can take this in one continuous period or over several shorter claim periods, provided your entitlement still links to the same two qualifying tax years.
If your circumstances change during the claim, for example, you find temporary work under 16 hours per week, you may pause your claim and resume it later within the same eligibility window.
Once your entitlement ends, your work coach will review your situation and discuss next steps. If you still require financial support, you may be able to transition to Universal Credit or other benefits, depending on your household income and savings.
Keeping your Claimant Commitment up to date ensures you remain eligible for continued support.
Can You Get New Style JSA and Universal Credit at the Same Time?
Yes, you can claim New Style JSA and Universal Credit at the same time. However, JSA payments are treated as income when calculating your Universal Credit, meaning your Universal Credit amount will be reduced by the same figure to avoid duplicated support.
This combination can be helpful if you meet the National Insurance contribution requirements for JSA while also qualifying for Universal Credit due to housing costs, children, or a low household income.
It allows you to receive Class 1 National Insurance credits through JSA, which count towards your State Pension and other contributory benefits, while also gaining extra support from Universal Credit.
- JSA provides contribution-based financial help.
- Universal Credit covers broader needs, such as housing and childcare.
Your work coach will explain how both interact and update your Claimant Commitment to ensure compliance and prevent overpayments.
What Happens If Your Claim for New Style JSA Is Refused?
If your claim for New Style JSA is refused, you will be sent a written notice explaining why. This could be due to not having enough National Insurance contributions, failing to meet the work availability requirements, or being in full-time education without an exemption.
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Insufficient contributions: You may not have paid or been credited with enough National Insurance in the qualifying years.
- Availability for work: If you are not actively seeking or available for work, your claim may be rejected.
- Full-time education: Being a full-time student without a qualifying exception can make you ineligible.
You have the right to request a mandatory reconsideration within one month of the decision. Provide supporting evidence, such as payslips or proof of job search activity, to strengthen your case.
If this fails, you can appeal to an independent tribunal, though the process may take several months
Conclusion
New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance in 2025 offers essential financial support to jobseekers who meet contribution and eligibility requirements.
With updated weekly rates and a straightforward application process, it provides a short-term safety net while you search for work. Understanding your entitlement, payment rates, and the claim procedure ensures you can make informed decisions and avoid delays.
Whether claimed alone or alongside Universal Credit, New Style JSA can help you stay financially stable while actively pursuing employment opportunities.
FAQs About New Style JSA
What is the difference between New Style JSA and old-style JSA?
New Style JSA is contribution-based and not means-tested, while old-style JSA could be income-based. The older versions are no longer open to new claims.
Can you get New Style JSA if you are self-employed?
Generally, no, unless you paid Class 1 National Insurance in specific roles like a share fisherman or volunteer development worker.
Do savings affect your eligibility for New Style JSA?
No, savings do not affect your claim, but pension income above £50 per week may reduce payments.
Is New Style JSA taxable in the UK?
Yes, JSA is considered taxable income and must be declared if required.
How does part-time work affect your JSA payments?
Working fewer than 16 hours per week may still allow you to claim, but earnings can reduce the amount you receive.
Can you travel abroad while receiving New Style JSA?
You can only travel abroad temporarily if it is for approved purposes, such as NHS medical treatment.
What support do Jobcentres provide alongside JSA payments?
Jobcentres offer work search guidance, training referrals, and help with CVs and applications.
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