Redundancy support
Benefits after redundancy: what you may be able to claim
5 min read
Several benefits run in parallel after redundancy. Some are based on your income and savings, others on your National Insurance record. You can often claim more than one.
Universal Credit
The main working-age benefit. Helps with day-to-day costs, rent and children. Means-tested — savings and partner income count.
New Style Jobseeker's Allowance
Up to 182 days if you've paid enough Class 1 NI in the last two to three tax years. Not means-tested. Can be claimed alongside UC.
Council Tax Reduction
Every council runs its own scheme. Apply through your local council's website — don't wait for UC to be decided first.
Other support to check
- Help from your energy supplier (Priority Services Register, hardship funds).
- Free school meals if you have children and a low income.
- NHS Low Income Scheme for prescriptions and dental costs.
- Discretionary Housing Payment if your rent is above the UC housing element.
- Local welfare assistance through your council.
See what you may be entitled to
The free check gives an indicative view in about five minutes. No login.
Frequently asked questions
Sources
- GOV.UK — Benefits browsergov.uk
- GOV.UK — New Style JSAgov.uk
See our methodology for how we use these sources.
Related reading
Redundancy support hub
Calm step-by-step guidance for the weeks after redundancy.
How statutory redundancy pay works in the UK
Who qualifies for statutory redundancy pay, how it's calculated, the weekly pay cap, and when it's tax-free.
How savings and redundancy pay affect Universal Credit
The £6,000 and £16,000 thresholds explained, plus how deliberate spending (deprivation of capital) is treated.
Universal Credit when your partner works
How a working partner's earnings affect Universal Credit after redundancy, including the work allowance and taper rate.
What benefits can I claim after redundancy?
A plain English overview of the UK benefits you may be able to claim if you've been made redundant, including Universal Credit, New Style JSA and help with rent or council tax.
Universal Credit after redundancy
A step-by-step plain English guide to claiming Universal Credit after redundancy in the UK — eligibility, what to expect, and how payments are worked out.