This scheme allows people starting work to have their housing benefit payments extended for a further four weeks once they start work.
Income Support / Jobseeker's Allowance claimants must fulfil the following criteria:
- you have been getting Income Support / Jobseeker's Allowance continuously for the last 26 weeks
- you are starting work and expect to be employed for five weeks or more
- you are still liable for rent and/or council tax.
Incapacity Benefit / Severe Disablement Allowance claimants must fulfil the following criteria:
- you have been getting Incapacity Benefit / Severe Disablement Allowance continuously for the last 26 weeks
- your new employment (or increase in hours or earnings) is expected to last for at least five weeks
- you are still liable for rent and/or council tax
- you are not receiving Incapacity Benefit in the week before you start work.