Unemployment and redundancy

Losing your job is worrying and means, in many cases, having to get by on a reduced income.

Whilst your intention may be to get back into employment as soon as possible, it’s important to act fast in order to ease the situation. If you are worrying about how to deal with your household bills or debts, or both, we can help.

For advice on budgeting and dealing with your debts you should use our online debt counselling service, which will provide you with the most appropriate solution to your debt problems. Alternatively contact our free Helpline on 0800 138 1111.

In the meantime you may find some of the following tips useful to help with your situation:

Redundancy pay

If you haven’t already received any, check with your ex-employer whether you are entitled to redundancy pay.

Benefit entitlement

Check your benefit entitlement. Depending on your circumstances you may be able to claim benefits such as Job Seekers Allowance. You may also be entitled to help with paying your rent and Council Tax. Your local Job Centre Plus will help you with a claim for benefits if you register yourself unemployed.

Government mortgage schemes

If you are a homeowner, check to see whether you are entitled to help from one of the government mortgage schemes.

Payment protection insurance

If you have paid for payment protection with any of your creditors, check if you are eligible to claim on them. This means that the insurance would pay your normal monthly payment for you.

If we haven’t answered your question please contact us and one of our advisors will be able to help you.

FAQs

How can I find out what benefits I can claim?

England and Wales > Life changes > Redundancy

You may be entitled to some government benefits to help increase your income. You could speak to your local benefits office or visit Entitled to, a government website with a benefits calculator. If you are struggling to pay your debts and would like advice on benefits please call our helpline. One of our specialist benefit advisors will be able to check if you are entitled to any benefits.

What is payment protection insurance?

England and Wales > Life changes > Redundancy

Payment protection insurance (PPI), is insurance that will pay out a sum of money to help cover your monthly repayments on your debt you took it out for if you are unable to work. This could be because you have an accident or sickness, or become unemployed through no fault of your own. Some payment protection policies will pay the debt off if you die.

Where can I get help when looking for a job?

England and Wales > Life changes > Redundancy

If you are looking for a job you could visit your local Job Centre Plus, or contact Careers Advice, a government careers advice service. You could also search for employment through job sites on the internet, visit recruitment agencies or look in your local newspaper.