Are your savings considered when applying or Jobseekers Benefit?

starlight2010

Hi,

Are your savings considered when applying or Jobseekers Benefit?

My husband left a full time permanent job last year. He's worked full time in Ireland for 30 years. He needed time out for personal reasons (not medical) and we both agreed he could take a year out. He didn't apply for any benefits as he left voluntarily and we survive ok on my wage.

A year later, he's now finding it difficult to get back into the workforce. He's actively applying and available for full-time work. He has had a three online interviews.

He's looking now at applying for Jobseekers Benefit but when applying online through mygov.ie it's asking for my savings information. I do have savings but I thought Jobseekers Benefit wasn't means tested. I know he won't be eligible for Jobseekers Allowance, but a few months on Jobseekers benefit would be very helpful at this stage.

Does anyone know are your savings considered when applying or Jobseekers Benefit?

Thanks

zell12

No.

Apply immediately, he is entitled to it. You may have to explain why you did not apply a year ago, and how you survived. If having problems online, go to the office.

TooTired123

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058265058/are-your-savings-considered-when-applying-or-jobseekers-benefit

They’re asking for your savings etc with a view to giving him an “increase” for you. If you don’t want to be considered for an increase then just add a note to that effect. Add a note explaining that the claimant hasn’t applied to date as was using savings etc but is now looking for available for and fit for full time work.

Don’t overthink this.

newmember2

afaik savings used to be included in a means test as regards any income you were benefitting from the savings and not the savings themselves.

TooTired123

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119674323#Comment_119674323

Jobseekers Benefit isn’t means tested and never was for the claimant but any dependents are.

newmember2

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119674326#Comment_119674326

ah yes, jumped the gun on that one.