Jobseekers Act 1995

Part I E+W+S The Jobseeker’s Allowance

Entitlement E+W+S

1 The jobseeker’s allowance. E+W+S

(1) An allowance, to be known as a jobseeker’s allowance, shall be payable in accordance with the provisions of this Act.

(2) Subject to the provisions of this Act, a claimant is entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance if he—

(a) is available for employment;

(b) has entered into a jobseeker’s agreement which remains in force;

(c) is actively seeking employment;

(d) satisfies either—

(i) the conditions set out in section 2; or

(ii) the conditions set out in section 3;

(e) is not engaged in remunerative work;

(f) is capable of work;

(g) is not receiving relevant education;

(h) is under pensionable age; and

(i) is in Great Britain.

(3) A jobseeker’s allowance is payable in respect of a week.

(4) In this Act—

• “a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance” means a jobseeker’s allowance entitlement to which is based on the claimant’s satisfying conditions which include those set out in section 2; and

• “an income-based jobseeker’s allowance” means a jobseeker’s allowance entitlement to which is based on the claimant’s satisfying conditions which include those set out in section 3.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 S. 1(2)(a)-(c)(e)-(i) applied (with modifications) (4.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2567, reg. 2(1)(2)-(4)

2 The contribution-based conditions. E+W+S

(1) The conditions referred to in section 1(2)(d)(i) are that the claimant—

(a) has actually paid Class 1 contributions in respect of one (“the base year") of the last two complete years before the beginning of the relevant benefit year and satisfies the additional conditions set out in subsection (2);

(b) has, in respect of the last two complete years before the beginning of the relevant benefit year, either paid Class 1 contributions or been credited with earnings and satisfies the additional condition set out in subsection (3);

(c) does not have earnings in excess of the prescribed amount; and

(d) is not entitled to income support.

(2) The additional conditions mentioned in subsection (1)(a) are that—

(a) the contributions have been paid before the week for which the jobseeker’s allowance is claimed;

(b) the earnings factor derived from earnings upon which primary Class 1 contributions have been paid or treated as paid is not less than the base year’s lower earnings limit multiplied by 25.

(3) The additional condition mentioned in subsection (1)(b) is that the earnings factor derived from earnings upon which primary Class 1 contributions have been paid or treated as paid or from earnings credited is not less, in each of the two complete years, than the lower earnings limit for the year multiplied by 50.

(4) For the purposes of this section—

(a) “benefit year” means a period which is a benefit year for the purposes of Part II of the Benefits Act or such other period as may be prescribed for the purposes of this section;

(b) “the relevant benefit year” is the benefit year which includes—

(i) the beginning of the jobseeking period which includes the week for which a jobseeker’s allowance is claimed, or

(ii) (if earlier) the beginning of any linked period; and

(c) other expressions which are used in this section and the Benefits Act have the same meaning in this section as they have in that Act.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2 S. 2 modified (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 158(1)(2)

S. 2 applied (with modifications) (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 167

C3 S. 2(4) modified (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 158(3)

Commencement Information

I1 S. 2 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 2 not in force at Royal Assent, see. s. 41(2); s. 2(1)(c)(4)(b) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 2 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

3 The income-based conditions. E+W+S

(1) The conditions referred to in section 1(2)(d)(ii) are that the claimant—

(a) has an income which does not exceed the applicable amount (determined in accordance with regulations under section 4) or has no income;

(b) is not entitled to income support;

(c) is not a member of a family one of whose members is entitled to income support;

(d) is not a member of a family one of whose members is entitled to an income-based jobseeker’s allowance;

(e) is not a member of a married or unmarried couple the other member of which is engaged in remunerative work; and

(f) is a person—

(i) who has reached the age of 18; or

(ii) in respect of whom a direction under section 16 is in force; or

(iii) who has, in prescribed circumstances to be taken into account for a prescribed period, reached the age of 16 but not the age of 18.

(2) Regulations may provide for one or both of the following conditions to be included in the income-based conditions, in the case of a person to whom subsection (1)(f)(ii) or (iii) applies—

(a) a condition that the claimant must register for employment;

(b) a condition that the claimant must register for training.

(3) In subsection (1)(f)(iii) “period” includes—

(a) a period of a determinate length;

(b) a period defined by reference to the happening of a future event; and

(c) a period of a determinate length but subject to earlier determination upon the happening of a future event.

(4) Regulations under subsection (2) may, in particular, make provision by reference to persons designated by the Secretary of State for the purpose of the regulations.

Commencement Information

I2 S. 3 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 3 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 3(1)(f)(iii)(2)(3)(4) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 3 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Valid from 19/03/2001

[F1 3A The conditions for claims by joint-claim couples. E+W+S

(1) The conditions referred to in section 1(2B)(c) are—

(a) that the income of the joint-claim couple does not exceed the applicable amount (determined in accordance with regulations under section 4) or the couple have no income;

(b) that no member of a family of which the couple are members is entitled to income support;

(c) that no member of any such family (other than the couple) is entitled to an income-based jobseeker’s allowance;

(d) that at least one member of the couple has reached the age of 18; and

(e) that if only one member of the couple has reached the age of 18, the other member of the couple is a person—

(i) in respect of whom a direction under section 16 is in force; or

(ii) who has, in prescribed circumstances to be taken into account for a prescribed period, reached the age of 16.

(2) Subsections (2) and (4) of section 3 shall apply in relation to a member of the couple to whom subsection (1)(e)(i) or (ii) above applies as they apply in relation to a claimant to whom subsection (1)(f)(ii) or (iii) of that section applies.

(3) In subsection (1)(e)(ii) above “period” shall be construed in accordance with section 3(3).]

Textual Amendments

F1 Ss. 3A, 3B inserted (19.3.2001) by 1999 c. 30, s. 59, Sch. 7 para. 4(2); S.I. 2000/2958, art. 2(2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4 S. 3A(1)(e)(ii) applied (1.4.2002) (with modifications) by S.I. 2001/4022, reg. 11(2)(g)

Valid from 19/03/2001

F2 3B Joint-claim couples: the nominated member. E+W+S

(1) Where a joint-claim couple make a claim for a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance, they may nominate one of them as the member of the couple to whom the allowance is to be payable.

(2) In default of one of them being so nominated, the allowance shall be payable to whichever of them is nominated by the Secretary of State.

(3) Subsections (1) and (2) have effect subject to section 4A(4) and (7).

(4) In this Act references to the nominated member of a joint-claim couple are, except where section 20A(7) applies, to the member of the couple nominated under subsection (1) or (2) above; and where section 20A(7) applies, references to the nominated member of such a couple are to the member of the couple to whom section 20A(7) provides for the allowance to be payable.

(5) Nothing in this section or section 20A(7) affects the operation of any statutory provision by virtue of which any amount of the allowance is required or authorised to be paid to someone other than the nominated member of the couple.

Textual Amendments

F2 Ss. 3A, 3B inserted (19.3.2001) by 1999 c. 30, s. 59, Sch. 7 para. 4(2); S.I. 2000/2958, art. 2(2)

4 Amount payable by way of a jobseeker’s allowance. E+W+S

(1) In the case of a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance, the amount payable in respect of a claimant (“his personal rate”) shall be calculated by—

(a) determining the age-related amount applicable to him; and

(b) making prescribed deductions in respect of earnings and pension payments.

(2) The age-related amount applicable to a claimant, for the purposes of subsection (1)(a), shall be determined in accordance with regulations.

(3) In the case of an income-based jobseeker’s allowance, the amount payable shall be—

(a) if a claimant has no income, the applicable amount;

(b) if a claimant has an income, the amount by which the applicable amount exceeds his income.

(4) Except in prescribed circumstances, a jobseeker’s allowance shall not be payable where the amount otherwise payable would be less than a prescribed minimum.

(5) The applicable amount shall be such amount or the aggregate of such amounts as may be determined in accordance with regulations.

(6) Where a claimant satisfies both the contribution-based conditions and the income-based conditions but has no income, the amount payable shall be—

(a) the applicable amount, if that is greater than his personal rate; and

(b) his personal rate, if it is not.

(7) Where the amount payable to a claimant to whom subsection (6) applies is the applicable amount, the amount payable to him by way of a jobseeker’s allowance shall be taken to consist of two elements—

(a) one being an amount equal to his personal rate; and

(b) the other being an amount equal to the excess of the applicable amount over his personal rate.

(8) Where a claimant satisfies both the contribution-based conditions and the income-based conditions and has an income, the amount payable shall be—

(a) the amount by which the applicable amount exceeds his income, if the amount of that excess is greater than his personal rate; and

(b) his personal rate, if it is not.

(9) Where the amount payable to a claimant to whom subsection (8) applies is the amount by which the applicable amount exceeds his income, the amount payable to him by way of a jobseeker’s allowance shall be taken to consist of two elements—

(a) one being an amount equal to his personal rate; and

(b) the other being an amount equal to the amount by which the difference between the applicable amount and his income exceeds his personal rate.

(10) The element of a jobseeker’s allowance mentioned in subsection (7)(a) and that mentioned in subsection (9)(a) shall be treated, for the purpose of identifying the source of the allowance, as attributable to the claimant’s entitlement to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance.

(11) The element of a jobseeker’s allowance mentioned in subsection (7)(b) and that mentioned in subsection (9)(b) shall be treated, for the purpose of identifying the source of the allowance, as attributable to the claimant’s entitlement to an income-based jobseeker’s allowance.

(12) Regulations under subsection (5) may provide that, in prescribed cases, an applicable amount is to be nil.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C5 S. 4(1) applied (with modifications) (4.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2570, reg. 3(2)

Commencement Information

I3 S. 4 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 4 not in force at Royal Assent, see. s. 41(2); s. 4(1)(b)(2)(4)(5)(12) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 4 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Valid from 19/03/2001

[F3 4A Amount payable in respect of joint-claim couple. E+W+S

(1) This section applies where—

(a) a joint-claim couple are entitled to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance, and

(b) one or each of the members of the couple is in addition entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance;

and in such a case the provisions of this section have effect in relation to the couple in place of section 4(3A).

(2) If a joint-claim couple falling within subsection (1) have no income, the amount payable in respect of the couple by way of a jobseeker’s allowance shall be—

(a) the applicable amount, if that is greater than the couple’s personal rate; and

(b) the couple’s personal rate, if it is not.

(3) Where the amount payable in accordance with subsection (2) is the applicable amount, the amount payable in respect of the couple by way of a jobseeker’s allowance shall be taken to consist of two elements—

(a) one being an amount equal to the couple’s personal rate; and

(b) the other being an amount equal to the excess of the applicable amount over the couple’s personal rate.

(4) Where the amount payable in accordance with subsection (2) is the couple’s personal rate, then—

(a) if each member of the couple is entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance, an amount equal to the member’s own personal rate shall be payable in respect of the member by way of such an allowance;

(b) if only one of them is so entitled, an amount equal to that member’s personal rate shall be payable in respect of the member by way of such an allowance;

and in either case nothing shall be payable in respect of the couple by way of a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance.

(5) If a joint-claim couple falling within subsection (1) have an income, the amount payable in respect of the couple by way of a jobseeker’s allowance shall be—

(a) the amount by which the applicable amount exceeds the couple’s income, if the amount of that excess is greater than the couple’s personal rate; and

(b) the couple’s personal rate, if it is not.

(6) Where the amount payable in accordance with subsection (5) is the amount by which the applicable amount exceeds the couple’s income, the amount payable in respect of the couple by way of a jobseeker’s allowance shall be taken to consist of two elements—

(a) one being an amount equal to the couple’s personal rate; and

(b) the other being an amount equal to the amount by which the difference between the applicable amount and the couple’s income exceeds the couple’s personal rate.

(7) Where the amount payable in accordance with subsection (5) is the couple’s personal rate, subsection (4) shall apply as it applies in a case where the amount payable in accordance with subsection (2) is that rate.

(8) The element of a jobseeker’s allowance mentioned in subsection (3)(a) and that mentioned in subsection (6)(a) shall be treated, for the purpose of identifying the source of the allowance, as attributable—

(a) in a case where only one member of the joint-claim couple is entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance, to that member’s entitlement to such an allowance; and

(b) in a case where each member of the couple is entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance, rateably according to their individual entitlements to such an allowance.

(9) The element of a jobseeker’s allowance mentioned in subsection (3)(b) and that mentioned in subsection (6)(b) shall be treated, for the purpose of identifying the source of the allowance, as attributable to the couple’s entitlement to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance.

(10) In this section “the couple’s personal rate”, in relation to a joint-claim couple, means—

(a) where only one member of the couple is entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance, that member’s personal rate;

(b) where each member of the couple is entitled to such an allowance, the aggregate of their personal rates.]

Textual Amendments

F3 S. 4A inserted (19.3.2001) by 1999 c. 30, s. 59, Sch. 7 para. 6; S.I. 2000/2958, art. 2(2)

5 Duration of a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance. E+W+S

(1) The period for which a person is entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance shall not exceed, in the aggregate, 182 days in any period for which his entitlement is established by reference (under section 2(1)(b)) to the same two years.

(2) The fact that a person’s entitlement to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance (“his previous entitlement") has ceased as a result of subsection (1), does not prevent his being entitled to a further contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance if—

(a) he satisfies the contribution-based conditions; and

(b) the two years by reference to which he satisfies those conditions includes at least one year which is later than the second of the two years by reference to which his previous entitlement was established.

(3) Regulations may provide that a person who would be entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance but for the operation of prescribed provisions of, or made under, this Act shall be treated as if entitled to the allowance for the purposes of this section.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6 S. 5(1) amended (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/3276, reg. 7(3)(a)

Commencement Information

I4 S. 5 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 5 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 5(3) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 5 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Jobseeking E+W+S

6 Availability for employment. E+W+S

(1) For the purposes of this Act, a person is available for employment if he is willing and able to take up immediately any employed earner’s employment.

(2) Subsection (1) is subject to such provisions as may be made by regulations; and those regulations may, in particular, provide that a person—

(a) may restrict his availability for employment in any week in such ways as may be prescribed; or

(b) may restrict his availability for employment in any week in such circumstances as may be prescribed (for example, on grounds of conscience, religious conviction or physical or mental condition or because he is caring for another person) and in such ways as may be prescribed.

(3) The following are examples of restrictions for which provision may be made by the regulations—

(a) restrictions on the nature of the employment for which a person is available;

(b) restrictions on the periods for which he is available;

(c) restrictions on the terms or conditions of employment for which he is available;

(d) restrictions on the locality or localities within which he is available.

(4) Regulations may prescribe circumstances in which, for the purposes of this Act, a person is or is not to be treated as available for employment.

(5) Regulations under subsection (4) may, in particular, provide for a person who is available for employment—

(a) only in his usual occupation,

(b) only at a level of remuneration not lower than that which he is accustomed to receive, or

(c) only in his usual occupation and at a level of remuneration not lower than that which he is accustomed to receive,

to be treated, for a permitted period, as available for employment.

(6) Where it has been determined (“the first determination") that a person is to be treated, for the purposes of this Act, as available for employment in any week, the question whether he is available for employment in that week may be subsequently determined on a review of the first determination.

(7) In this section “permitted period”, in relation to any person, means such period as may be determined in accordance with the regulations made under subsection (4).

(8) Regulations under subsection (4) may prescribe, in relation to permitted periods—

(a) the day on which any such period is to be regarded as having begun in any case;

(b) the shortest and longest periods which may be determined in any case;

(c) factors which an adjudication officer may take into account in determining the period in any case.

(9) For the purposes of this section “employed earner’s employment” has the same meaning as in the Benefits Act.

Commencement Information

I5 S. 6 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 6 not in force at Royal Assent, see. s. 41(2); s. 6(2)(3)(4)(5)(7)(8) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 6 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

7 Actively seeking employment. E+W+S

(1) For the purposes of this Act, a person is actively seeking employment in any week if he takes in that week such steps as he can reasonably be expected to have to take in order to have the best prospects of securing employment.

(2) Regulations may make provision—

(a) with respect to steps which it is reasonable, for the purposes of subsection (1), for a person to be expected to have to take in any week;

(b) as to circumstances (for example, his skills, qualifications, abilities and physical or mental limitations) which, in particular, are to be taken into account in determining whether, in relation to any steps taken by a person, the requirements of subsection (1) are satisfied in any week.

(3) Regulations may make provision for acts of a person which would otherwise be relevant for purposes of this section to be disregarded in such circumstances (including circumstances constituted by, or connected with, his behaviour or appearance) as may be prescribed.

(4) Regulations may prescribe circumstances in which, for the purposes of this Act, a person is to be treated as actively seeking employment.

(5) Regulations under subsection (4) may, in particular, provide for a person who is actively seeking employment—

(a) only in his usual occupation,

(b) only at a level of remuneration not lower than that which he is accustomed to receive, or

(c) only in his usual occupation and at a level of remuneration not lower than that which he is accustomed to receive,

to be treated, for the permitted period determined in his case for the purposes of section 6(5), as actively seeking employment during that period.

(6) Regulations may provide for this section, and any regulations made under it, to have effect in relation to a person who has reached the age of 16 but not the age of 18 as if “employment” included “training".

(7) Where it has been determined (“the first determination") that a person is to be treated, for the purposes of this Act, as actively seeking employment in any week, the question whether he is actively seeking employment in that week may subsequently be determined on a review of the first determination.

(8) For the purposes of this section—

• “employment” means employed earner’s employment or, in prescribed circumstances—

(a) self-employed earner’s employment; or

(b) employed earner’s employment and self-employed earner’s employment; and

“employed earner’s employment” and “self-employed earner’s employment” have the same meaning as in the Benefits Act.

Commencement Information

I6 S. 7 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 7 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 7(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(8) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 7 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

8 Attendance, information and evidence. E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision for requiring a claimant—

(a) to attend at such place and at such time as the Secretary of State may specify; and

(b) to provide information and such evidence as may be prescribed as to his circumstances, his availability for employment and the extent to which he is actively seeking employment.

(2) Regulations under subsection (1) may, in particular—

(a) prescribe circumstances in which entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance is to cease in the case of a claimant who fails to comply with any regulations made under that subsection;

(b) provide for entitlement to cease at such time (after he last attended in compliance with requirements of the kind mentioned in subsection (1)(a)) as may be determined in accordance with any such regulations;

(c) provide for entitlement not to cease if the claimant shows, within a prescribed period of his failure to comply, that he had good cause for that failure; and

(d) prescribe—

(i) matters which are, or are not, to be taken into account in determining whether a person has, or does not have, good cause for failing to comply with any such regulations; and

(ii) circumstances in which a person is, or is not, to be regarded as having, or not having, good cause for failing to comply with any such regulations.

Commencement Information

I7 S. 8 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 8 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 8 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 8 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Valid from 01/02/2012

9 The jobseeker’s agreement. E+W+S

(1) An agreement which is entered into by a claimant and an employment officer and which complies with the prescribed requirements in force at the time when the agreement is made is referred to in this Act as “a jobseeker’s agreement”.

(2) A jobseeker’s agreement shall have effect only for the purposes of section 1.

(3) A jobseeker’s agreement shall be in writing and be signed by both parties.

[F4 (3A) The agreement may be in electronic form and signed by means of an electronic signature (within the meaning given in section 7(2) of the Electronic Communications Act 2000).]

(4) A copy of the agreement shall be given to the claimant.

(5) An employment officer shall not enter into a jobseeker’s agreement with a claimant unless, in the officer’s opinion, the conditions mentioned in section 1(2)(a) and (c) would be satisfied with respect to the claimant if he were to comply with, or be treated as complying with, the proposed agreement.

(6) The employment officer may, and if asked to do so by the claimant shall forthwith, refer a proposed jobseeker’s agreement to [F5 the Secretary of State] for him to determine—

(a) whether, if the claimant concerned were to comply with the proposed agreement, he would satisfy—

(i) the condition mentioned in section 1(2)(a), or

(ii) the condition mentioned in section 1(2)(c); and

(b) whether it is reasonable to expect the claimant to have to comply with the proposed agreement.

(7) [F6 On a reference under subsection (6) the Secretary of State]—

(a) shall, so far as practicable, dispose of it in accordance with this section before the end of the period of 14 days from the date of the reference;

(b) may give such directions, with respect to the terms on which the employment officer is to enter into a jobseeker’s agreement with the claimant, as [F7 the Secretary of State] considers appropriate;

(c) may direct that, if such conditions as he considers appropriate are satisfied, the proposed jobseeker’s agreement is to be treated (if entered into) as having effect on such date, before it would otherwise have effect, as may be specified in the direction.

(8) Regulations may provide—

(a) for such matters as may be prescribed to be taken into account by [F8 the Secretary of State] in giving a direction under subsection (7)(c); and

(b) for such persons as may be prescribed to be notified of—

(i) any determination of [F8 the Secretary of State] under this section;

(ii) any direction given by an adjudication officer under this section.

[F9 (9) Any determination of an adjudication officer under this section shall be binding.]

(10) Regulations may provide that, in prescribed circumstances, a claimant is to be treated as having satisfied the condition mentioned in section 1(2)(b).

(11) Regulations may provide that, in prescribed circumstances, a jobseeker’s agreement is to be treated as having effect on a date, to be determined in accordance with the regulations, before it would otherwise have effect.

(12) Except in such circumstances as may be prescribed, a jobseeker’s agreement entered into by a claimant shall cease to have effect on the coming to an end of an award of a jobseeker’s allowance made to him [F10 or to a joint-claim couple of which he is a member.].

(13) In this section and section 10 “employment officer” means an officer of the Secretary of State or such other person as may be designated for the purposes of this section by an order made by the Secretary of State.

Textual Amendments

F4 S. 9(3A) inserted (1.2.2012) by The Social Security (Electronic Communications) Order 2011 (S.I. 2011/1498), art. 2(2)

F5 Words in s. 9(6) substituted (18.10.1999 for specified purposes and otherwiseprosp.) by 1998 c. 14, ss. 86(1), 87(2), Sch. 7 para. 136(1); S.I. 1999/2860, art. 2(c), Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in Schs. 16-18) (as amended (25.11.1999) by S.I. 1999/3178, art. 3(20), Sch. 20 paras. 1(a), 2(a))

F6 Words in s. 9(7) substituted (18.10.1999 for specified purposes and otherwiseprosp.) by 1998 c. 14, ss. 86(1), 87(2), Sch. 7 para. 136(2)(a); S.I. 1999/2860, art. 2(c), Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in Schs. 16-18) (as amended (25.11.1999) by S.I. 1999/3178, art. 3(20), Sch. 20 paras. 1(a), 2(a))

F7 Words in s. 9(7)(b) substituted (18.10.1999 for specified purposes and otherwiseprosp.) by 1998 c. 14, ss. 86(1), 87(2), Sch. 7 para. 136(2)(b); S.I. 1999/2860, art. 2(c), Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in Schs. 16-18) (as amended (25.11.1999) by S.I. 1999/3178, art. 3(20), Sch. 20 paras. 1(a), 2(a))

F8 Words in s. 9(8) substituted (18.10.1999 for specified purposes and otherwiseprosp.) by 1998 c. 14, ss. 86(1), 87(2), Sch. 7 para. 136(3); S.I. 1999/2860, art. 2(c), Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in Schs. 16-18) (as amended (25.11.1999) by S.I. 1999/3178, art. 3(20), Sch. 20 paras. 1(a), 2(a))

F9 S. 9(9) repealed (18.10.1999 for specified purposes and otherwiseprosp.) by 1998 c. 14, ss. 86, 87(2), Sch. 7 para. 136(4), Sch. 8; S.I. 1999/2860, art. 2(c), Sch. 1 (subject to transitional provisions in Schs. 16-18) (as amended (25.11.1999) by S.I. 1999/3178, art. 3(20), Sch. 20 paras. 1(a), 2(a))

F10 Words in s. 9(12) inserted (19.3.2001) by 1999 c. 30, s. 59, Sch. 7 para. 8; S.I. 2000/2958, art. 2(2)

Commencement Information

I8 S. 9 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 9 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 9(13) in force (12.12.1995) by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(a); s. 9(1)(8)(10)(11)(12) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 9 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

10 Variation of jobseeker’s agreement. E+W+S

(1) A jobseeker’s agreement may be varied, in the prescribed manner, by agreement between the claimant and any employment officer.

(2) Any agreement to vary a jobseeker’s agreement shall be in writing and be signed by both parties.

(3) A copy of the agreement, as varied, shall be given to the claimant.

(4) An employment officer shall not agree to a variation of a jobseeker’s agreement, unless, in the officer’s opinion, the conditions mentioned in section 1(2)(a) and (c) would continue to be satisfied with respect to the claimant if he were to comply with, or be treated as complying with, the agreement as proposed to be varied.

(5) The employment officer may, and if asked to do so by the claimant shall forthwith, refer a proposed variation of a jobseeker’s agreement to an adjudication officer for him to determine—

(a) whether, if the claimant concerned were to comply with the agreement as proposed to be varied, he would satisfy—

(i) the condition mentioned in section 1(2)(a), or

(ii) the condition mentioned in section 1(2)(c); and

(b) whether it is reasonable to expect the claimant to have to comply with the agreement as proposed to be varied.

(6) An adjudication officer to whom a reference is made under subsection (5)—

(a) shall, so far as practicable, dispose of it in accordance with this section before the end of the period of 14 days from the date of the reference;

(b) shall give such directions as he considers appropriate as to—

(i) whether the jobseeker’s agreement should be varied, and

(ii) if so, the terms on which the claimant and the employment officer are to enter into an agreement to vary it;

(c) may bring the jobseeker’s agreement to an end where the claimant fails, within a prescribed period, to comply with a direction given under paragraph (b)(ii);

(d) may direct that, if—

(i) the jobseeker’s agreement is varied, and

(ii) such conditions as he considers appropriate are satisfied,

the agreement as varied is to be treated as having effect on such date, before it would otherwise have effect, as may be specified in the direction.

(7) Regulations may provide—

(a) for such matters as may be prescribed to be taken into account by an adjudication officer in giving a direction under subsection (6)(b) or (d); and

(b) for such persons as may be prescribed to be notified of—

(i) any determination of an adjudication officer under this section;

(ii) any direction given by an adjudication officer under this section.

(8) Any determination of an adjudication officer under this section shall be binding.

Commencement Information

I9 S. 10 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 10 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 10(1)(6)(c)(7) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 10 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

11 Jobseeker’s agreement: reviews and appeals. E+W+S

(1) Any determination of, or direction given by, an adjudication officer under section 9 or 10 may be reviewed (by a different adjudication officer) on the application of the claimant or of an employment officer.

(2) Regulations may make provision with respect to the procedure to be followed on a review under this section.

(3) The claimant may appeal to a social security appeal tribunal against any determination of, or direction given by, an adjudication officer on a review under this section.

(4) A social security appeal tribunal determining an appeal under this section may give a direction of a kind which an adjudication officer may give under section 9(7)(b) or (c) or (as the case may be) section 10(6)(b) or (d).

(5) Where a social security appeal tribunal gives a direction under subsection (4) of a kind which may be given by an adjudication officer under section 10(6)(b)(ii), an adjudication officer may bring the jobseeker’s agreement to an end if the claimant fails to comply with the direction within a prescribed period.

(6) An appropriate person may, on the ground that it was erroneous in point of law, appeal to a Commissioner against the decision of a social security appeal tribunal on an appeal under this section.

(7) Any of the following is an appropriate person for the purposes of subsection (6)—

(a) the claimant;

(b) an adjudication officer;

(c) in prescribed circumstances, a trade union;

(d) in prescribed circumstances, any other association which exists to promote the interests and welfare of its members.

(8) Subsections (7) to (10) of section 23 of the Administration Act (appeals to Commissioners) shall apply in relation to appeals under this section as they apply in relation to appeals under that section.

(9) In this section “Commissioner” has the same meaning as in the Administration Act.

Commencement Information

I10 S. 11 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 11 not in force at Royal Assent, see. s. 41(2); s. 11(2)(5)(7)(8) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 11 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Income and capital E+W+S

12 Income and capital: general. E+W+S

(1) In relation to a claim for a jobseeker’s allowance, the income and capital of a person shall be calculated or estimated in such manner as may be prescribed.

(2) A person’s income in respect of a week shall be calculated in accordance with prescribed rules.

(3) The rules may provide for the calculation to be made by reference to an average over a period (which need not include the week concerned).

(4) Circumstances may be prescribed in which—

(a) a person is treated as possessing capital or income which he does not possess;

(b) capital or income which a person does possess is to be disregarded;

(c) income is to be treated as capital;

(d) capital is to be treated as income.

Commencement Information

I11 S. 12 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 12 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 12 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 12 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

13 Income and capital: income-based jobseeker’s allowance. E+W+S

(1) No person shall be entitled to an income-based jobseeker’s allowance if his capital, or a prescribed part of it, exceeds the prescribed amount.

(2) Where a person claiming an income-based jobseeker’s allowance is a member of a family, the income and capital of any member of that family shall, except in prescribed circumstances, be treated as the income and capital of the claimant.

(3) Regulations may provide that capital not exceeding the amount prescribed under subsection (1), but exceeding a prescribed lower amount, shall be treated, to a prescribed extent, as if it were income of a prescribed amount.

Commencement Information

I12 S. 13 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 13 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 13 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 13 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Trade disputes E+W+S

14 Trade disputes. E+W+S

(1) Where—

(a) there is a stoppage of work which causes a person not to be employed on any day, and

(b) the stoppage is due to a trade dispute at his place of work,

that person is not entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance for the week which includes that day unless he proves that he is not directly interested in the dispute.

(2) A person who withdraws his labour on any day in furtherance of a trade dispute, but to whom subsection (1) does not apply, is not entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance for the week which includes that day.

(3) If a person who is prevented by subsection (1) from being entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance proves that during the stoppage—

(a) he became bona fide employed elsewhere;

(b) his employment was terminated by reason of redundancy within the meaning of [F11 section 139(1) of the Employment Rights Act 1996] , or

(c) he bona fide resumed employment with his employer but subsequently left for a reason other than the trade dispute,

subsection (1) shall be taken to have ceased to apply to him on the occurrence of the event referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) or (as the case may be) the first event referred to in paragraph (c).

(4) In this section “place of work”, in relation to any person, means the premises or place at which he was employed.

(5) Where separate branches of work which are commonly carried on as separate businesses in separate premises or at separate places are in any case carried on in separate departments on the same premises or at the same place, each of those departments shall, for the purposes of subsection (4), be deemed to be separate premises or (as the case may be) a separate place.

Textual Amendments

F11 Words in s. 14(3)(b) substituted (22.8.1996) by 1996 c. 18, ss. 240, 243, Sch. 1 para. 67(2)

15 Effect on other claimants. E+W+S

(1) Except in prescribed circumstances, subsection (2) applies in relation to a claimant for an income-based jobseeker’s allowance where a member of his family (“A”) is, or would be, prevented by section 14 from being entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance.

(2) For the purposes of calculating the claimant’s entitlement to an income-based jobseeker’s allowance—

(a) any portion of the applicable amount which is included in respect of A shall be disregarded for the period for which this subsection applies to the claimant;

(b) where the claimant and A are a married or unmarried couple, any portion of the applicable amount which is included in respect of them shall be reduced to one half for the period for which this subsection applies to the claimant;

(c) except so far as regulations provide otherwise, there shall be treated as the claimant’s income—

(i) any amount which becomes, or would on an application duly made become, available to A in relation to that period by way of repayment of income tax deducted from A’s emoluments in pursuance of section 203 of the M1 Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988 (PAYE); and

(ii) any other payment which the claimant or any member of his family receives or is entitled to obtain because A is without employment for that period; and

(d) any payment by way of a jobseeker’s allowance for that period or any part of it which apart from this paragraph would be made to the claimant—

(i) shall not be made, if the weekly rate of payment (“the rate") would be equal to or less than the prescribed sum; and

(ii) shall be at a weekly rate equal to the difference between the rate and the prescribed sum, if the rate would be more than the prescribed sum.

(3) Where a reduction under subsection (2)(b) would not produce a sum which is a multiple of 5p, the reduction shall be to the nearest lower sum which is such a multiple.

(4) Where A returns to work with the same employer after a period during which subsection (2) applied to the claimant (whether or not his return is before the end of any stoppage of work in relation to which he is, or would be, prevented from being entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance), subsection (2) shall cease to apply to the claimant at the commencement of the day on which A returns to work.

(5) In relation to any period of less than a week, subsection (2) shall have effect subject to such modifications as may be prescribed.

(6) Subsections (7) to (9) apply where an order made under section 150 of the Administration Act (annual up-rating of benefits) has the effect of increasing the sum prescribed in regulations made under section 4(5) as the personal allowance for a single person aged not less than 25 (“the personal allowance").

(7) For the sum prescribed in regulations made under subsection (2)(d) there shall be substituted, from the time when the order comes into force, a sum arrived at by increasing the prescribed sum by the percentage by which the personal allowance has been increased by the order.

(8) If the sum arrived at under subsection (7) is not a multiple of 50p—

(a) any remainder of 25p or less shall be disregarded;

(b) any remainder of more than 25p shall be rounded up to the nearest 50p.

(9) The order shall state the sum substituted for the sum prescribed in regulations made under subsection (2)(d).

(10) Nothing in subsection (7) prevents the making of further regulations under subsection (2)(d) varying the prescribed sum.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C7 S. 15(2) excluded (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 171

C8 S. 15(2)(d) modified (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 155

S. 15(2)(d) modified (19.3.2001) by S.I. 1996/207 reg. 155(2) (as inserted (19.3.2001) by S.I. 2000/1978, reg. 2(5), Sch. 2 para. 52

Commencement Information

I13 S. 15 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 15 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 15(1)(2)(d)(5)(6) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 15 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Marginal Citations

M1 1988 c. 1.

Valid from 19/03/2001

[F12 15A Trade disputes: joint-claim couples. E+W+S

(1) Sections 14 and 15 shall, in relation to a joint-claim couple claiming a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance, apply in accordance with this section.

(2) Where each member of the couple is prevented by section 14 from being entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance, the couple are not entitled to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance.

(3) But where only one member of the couple is prevented by that section from being entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance, the couple are not for that reason alone prevented from being entitled to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance.

(4) Section 15(1) does not have effect in relation to the couple but, except in prescribed circumstances, section 15(2) applies for the purposes of calculating the couple’s entitlement to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance where—

(a) a member of the couple, or

(b) any other person who is a member of any family of which the couple are members,

is, or would be, prevented by section 14 from being entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance.

(5) Where section 15(2) applies in relation to the couple by virtue of subsection (4) above, that provision and section 15(4) apply with the following modifications—

(a) references to the claimant are to be taken as references to the couple;

(b) references to “A" are to the person mentioned in subsection (4)(a) or (b) above;

(c) section 15(2)(b) has effect as if for “where the claimant and A are a married or unmarried couple," there were substituted “where A is a member of the couple,"; and

(d) section 15(2)(c)(ii) has effect as if for “of his family" there were substituted “of any family of which the couple are members".]

Textual Amendments

F12 S. 15A inserted (19.3.2001) by 1999 c. 30, s. 59, Sch. 7 para. 10; S.I. 2000/2958, art. 2(2)

Persons under 18 E+W+S

16 Severe hardship. E+W+S

(1) If it appears to the Secretary of State—

(a) that a person—

(i) has reached the age of 16 but not the age of 18,

(ii) is not entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance or to income support, and

(iii) is registered for training but is not being provided with any training, and

(b) that severe hardship will result to him unless a jobseeker’s allowance is paid to him,

the Secretary of State may direct that this section is to apply to him.

(2) A direction may be given so as to have effect for a specified period.

(3) The Secretary of State may revoke a direction if—

(a) it appears to him that there has been a change of circumstances as a result of which failure to receive a jobseeker’s allowance need no longer result in severe hardship to the person concerned;

(b) it appears to him that the person concerned has—

(i) failed to pursue an opportunity of obtaining training; or

(ii) rejected an offer of training,

and has not shown good cause for doing so; or

(c) he is satisfied that it was given in ignorance of some material fact or was based on a mistake as to some material fact and considers that, but for that ignorance or mistake, he would not have given the direction.

(4) In this section “period” includes—

(a) a period of a determinate length;

(b) a period defined by reference to the happening of a future event; and

(c) a period of a determinate length but subject to earlier determination upon the happening of a future event.

17 Reduced payments. E+W+S

(1) Regulations may provide for the amount of an income-based jobseeker’s allowance payable to any young person to whom this section applies to be reduced—

(a) in such circumstances,

(b) by such a percentage, and

(c) for such a period,

as may be prescribed.

(2) This section applies to any young person in respect of whom—

(a) a direction is in force under section 16; and

(b) either of the conditions mentioned in subsection (3) is satisfied.

(3) The conditions are that—

(a) the young person was previously entitled to an income-based jobseeker’s allowance and that entitlement ceased by virtue of the revocation of a direction under section 16;

(b) he has failed to complete a course of training and no certificate has been issued to him under subsection (4) with respect to that failure.

(4) Where a young person who has failed to complete a course of training—

(a) claims that there was good cause for the failure, and

(b) applies to the Secretary of State for a certificate under this subsection,

the Secretary of State shall, if he is satisfied that there was good cause for the failure, issue a certificate to that effect and give a copy of it to the young person.

(5) In this section “young person” means a person who has reached the age of 16 but not the age of 18.

Commencement Information

I14 S. 17 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 17 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 17(1) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 17 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

X1 18 Recovery of overpayments. E+W+S

In the Administration Act, insert after section 71—

“ Jobseeker’s allowance E+W+S

71A Recovery of jobseeker’s allowance: severe hardship cases.

(1) Where—

(a) a severe hardship direction is revoked; and

(b) it is determined by an adjudication officer that—

(i) whether fraudulently or otherwise, any person has misrepresented, or failed to disclose, any material fact; and

(ii) in consequence of the failure or misrepresentation, payment of a jobseeker’s allowance has been made during the relevant period to the person to whom the direction related,

an adjudication officer may determine that the Secretary of State is entitled to recover the amount of the payment.

(2) In this section—

• “severe hardship direction” means a direction given under section 16 of the Jobseekers Act 1995; and

• “the relevant period” means—

  (a)

  if the revocation is under section 16(3)(a) of that Act, the period beginning with the date of the change of circumstances and ending with the date of the revocation; and

  (b)

  if the revocation is under section 16(3)(b) or (c) of that Act, the period during which the direction was in force.

(3) Where a severe hardship direction is revoked, the Secretary of State may certify whether there has been misrepresentation of a material fact or failure to disclose a material fact.

(4) If the Secretary of State certifies that there has been such misrepresentation or failure to disclose, he may certify—

(a) who made the misrepresentation or failed to make the disclosure; and

(b) whether or not a payment of jobseeker’s allowance has been made in consequence of the misrepresentation or failure.

(5) If the Secretary of State certifies that a payment has been made, he may certify the period during which a jobseeker’s allowance would not have been paid but for the misrepresentation or failure to disclose.

(6) A certificate under this section shall be conclusive as to any matter certified.

(7) Subsections (3) and (6) to (10) of section 71 above apply to a jobseeker’s allowance recoverable under subsection (1) above as they apply to a jobseeker’s allowance recoverable under section 71(1) above.

(8) The other provisions of section 71 above do not apply to a jobseeker’s allowance recoverable under subsection (1) above.”

Editorial Information

X1 S. 18: with effect from 12.11.2009, as a consequence of the insertions of ss. 17A-17C and associated cross-headings, s. 18 falls under the inserted cross-heading "Persons dependent on drugs etc" instead of the cross-heading "Persons under 18" [a consequence which may not have been intended]

Valid from 12/11/2009

[F13 “Work for your benefit” schemes etc. E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F13 Ss. 17A, 17B, and preceding cross-heading inserted (12.11.2009) by Welfare Reform Act 2009 (c. 24), ss. 1(2), 61(1)

17A Schemes for assisting persons to obtain employment: “work for your benefit” schemes etc. E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision for or in connection with imposing on claimants in prescribed circumstances a requirement to participate in schemes of any prescribed description that are designed to assist them to obtain employment.

(2) Regulations under this section may, in particular, require participants to undertake work, or work-related activity, during any prescribed period with a view to improving their prospects of obtaining employment.

(3) In subsection (2) “work-related activity”, in relation to any person, means activity which makes it more likely that the person will obtain or remain in work or be able to do so.

(4) Regulations under this section may not require a person to participate in a scheme unless the person would (apart from the regulations) be required to meet the jobseeking conditions.

(5) Regulations under this section may, in particular, make provision—

(a) for notifying participants of the requirement to participate in a scheme within subsection (1);

(b) for securing that participants are not required to meet the jobseeking conditions or are not required to meet such of those conditions as are specified in the regulations;

(c) for suspending any jobseeker's agreement to which a person is a party for any period during which the person is a participant;

(d) for securing that the appropriate consequence follows if a participant has failed to comply with the regulations and it is not shown, within a prescribed period, that the participant had good cause for the failure;

(e) prescribing matters which are, or are not, to be taken into account in determining whether a participant has good cause for any failure to comply with the regulations;

(f) prescribing circumstances in which a participant is, or is not, to be regarded as having good cause for any failure to comply with the regulations.

(6) In the case of a jobseeker's allowance other than a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance, the appropriate consequence for the purposes of subsection (5)(d) is that the allowance is not payable for such period (of at least one week but not more than 26 weeks) as may be prescribed.

(7) In the case of a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance, the appropriate consequence for the purposes of subsection (5)(d) is that the participant is to be treated as subject to sanctions for the purposes of section 20A for such period (of at least one week but not more than 26 weeks) as may be prescribed.

(8) Regulations under this section may make provision for an income-based jobseeker's allowance to be payable in prescribed circumstances even though other provision made by the regulations would prevent payment of it.

This subsection does not apply in the case of a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance (corresponding provision for which is made by section 20B(4)).

(9) The provision that may be made by the regulations by virtue of subsection (8) includes, in particular, provision for the allowance to be—

(a) payable only if prescribed requirements as to the provision of information are complied with;

(b) payable at a prescribed rate;

(c) payable for a prescribed period (which may differ from any period mentioned in subsection (6)).

(10) In this section—

• “claimant”, in relation to a joint-claim couple claiming a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance, means either or both of the members of the couple;

• “the jobseeking conditions” means the conditions set out in section 1(2)(a) to (c);

• “participant”, in relation to any time, means any person who is required at that time to participate in a scheme within subsection (1).

17B Section 17A: supplemental E+W+S

(1) For the purposes of, or in connection with, any scheme within section 17A(1) the Secretary of State may—

(a) make arrangements (whether or not with other persons) for the provision of facilities;

(b) provide support (by whatever means) for arrangements made by other persons for the provision of facilities;

(c) make payments (by way of fees, grants, loans or otherwise) to persons undertaking the provision of facilities under arrangements within paragraph (a) or (b);

(d) make payments (by way of grants, loans or otherwise) to persons participating in the scheme;

(e) make payments in respect of incidental expenses.

(2) For the purposes of, or in connection with, any scheme within section 17A(1)—

(a) the Scottish Ministers, and

(b) the Welsh Ministers,

may make payments (by way of fees, grants, loans or otherwise) to persons (including the Secretary of State) undertaking the provision of facilities under arrangements within subsection (1)(a) or (b) if the following condition is met.

(3) The condition is that the Scottish Ministers or the Welsh Ministers consider that the facilities are capable of supporting the training in Scotland or Wales of persons for employment.

(4) Unless the Scottish Ministers or Welsh Ministers otherwise specify, the payments may be used by the person to whom they are made for the provision of any of the facilities provided under the arrangements.

(5) In subsections (1) to (4) “facilities” includes services, and any reference to the provision of facilities includes the making of payments to persons participating in the scheme.

(6) The power of the Secretary of State to make an order under section 26 of the Employment Act 1988 (status of trainees etc) includes power to make, in relation to—

(a) persons participating in any scheme within section 17A(1), and

(b) payments received by them by virtue of subsection (1) above,

provision corresponding to any provision which (by virtue of section 26(1) or (2) of that Act) may be made in relation to persons using such facilities, and to such payments received by them, as are mentioned in section 26(1) of that Act.]

Valid from 12/11/2009

[F14 Persons dependent on drugs etc. E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F14 S. 17C and preceding cross-heading inserted (12.11.2009) by Welfare Reform Act 2009 (c. 24), ss. 11, 61(1), Sch. 3 para. 1

17C Persons dependent on drugs etc. E+W+S

(1) Schedule A1 makes provision for or in connection with imposing requirements on persons in cases where—

(a) they are dependent on, or have a propensity to misuse, any drug, and

(b) any such dependency or propensity is a factor affecting their prospects of obtaining or remaining in work.

(2) That Schedule also contains a power for its provisions to apply in relation to alcohol.

X2 18 Recovery of overpayments. U.K.

In the Administration Act, insert after section 71—

“ Jobseeker’s allowance U.K.

71A Recovery of jobseeker’s allowance: severe hardship cases.

(1) Where—

(a) a severe hardship direction is revoked; and

(b) it is determined by an adjudication officer that—

(i) whether fraudulently or otherwise, any person has misrepresented, or failed to disclose, any material fact; and

(ii) in consequence of the failure or misrepresentation, payment of a jobseeker’s allowance has been made during the relevant period to the person to whom the direction related,

an adjudication officer may determine that the Secretary of State is entitled to recover the amount of the payment.

(2) In this section—

• “severe hardship direction” means a direction given under section 16 of the Jobseekers Act 1995; and

• “the relevant period” means—

  (a)

  if the revocation is under section 16(3)(a) of that Act, the period beginning with the date of the change of circumstances and ending with the date of the revocation; and

  (b)

  if the revocation is under section 16(3)(b) or (c) of that Act, the period during which the direction was in force.

(3) Where a severe hardship direction is revoked, the Secretary of State may certify whether there has been misrepresentation of a material fact or failure to disclose a material fact.

(4) If the Secretary of State certifies that there has been such misrepresentation or failure to disclose, he may certify—

(a) who made the misrepresentation or failed to make the disclosure; and

(b) whether or not a payment of jobseeker’s allowance has been made in consequence of the misrepresentation or failure.

(5) If the Secretary of State certifies that a payment has been made, he may certify the period during which a jobseeker’s allowance would not have been paid but for the misrepresentation or failure to disclose.

(6) A certificate under this section shall be conclusive as to any matter certified.

(7) Subsections (3) and (6) to (10) of section 71 above apply to a jobseeker’s allowance recoverable under subsection (1) above as they apply to a jobseeker’s allowance recoverable under section 71(1) above.

(8) The other provisions of section 71 above do not apply to a jobseeker’s allowance recoverable under subsection (1) above.”

Editorial Information

X2 S. 18: with effect from 12.11.2009, as a consequence of the insertions of ss. 17A-17C and associated cross-headings, s. 18 falls under the inserted cross-heading "Persons dependent on drugs etc" instead of the cross-heading "Persons under 18" [a consequence which may not have been intended]

Denial of jobseeker’s allowance E+W+S

19 Circumstances in which a jobseeker’s allowance is not payable. E+W+S

(1) Even though the conditions for entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance are satisfied with respect to a person, the allowance shall not be payable in any of the circumstances mentioned in subsection (5) or (6).

(2) If the circumstances are any of those mentioned in subsection (5), the period for which the allowance is not to be payable shall be such period (of at least one week but not more than 26 weeks) as may be prescribed.

(3) If the circumstances are any of those mentioned in subsection (6), the period for which the allowance is not to be payable shall be such period (of at least one week but not more than 26 weeks) as may be determined by the adjudication officer.

(4) Regulations may prescribe—

(a) circumstances which an adjudication officer is to take into account, and

(b) circumstances which he is not to take into account,

in determining a period under subsection (3).

(5) The circumstances referred to in subsections (1) and (2) are that the claimant—

(a) has, without good cause, refused or failed to carry out any jobseeker’s direction which was reasonable, having regard to his circumstances;

(b) has, without good cause—

(i) neglected to avail himself of a reasonable opportunity of a place on a training scheme or employment programme;

(ii) after a place on such a scheme or programme has been notified to him by an employment officer as vacant or about to become vacant, refused or failed to apply for it or to accept it when offered to him;

(iii) given up a place on such a scheme or programme; or

(iv) failed to attend such a scheme or programme on which he has been given a place; or

(c) has lost his place on such a scheme or programme through misconduct.

(6) The circumstances referred to in subsections (1) and (3) are that the claimant—

(a) has lost his employment as an employed earner through misconduct;

(b) has voluntarily left such employment without just cause;

(c) has, without good cause, after a situation in any employment has been notified to him by an employment officer as vacant or about to become vacant, refused or failed to apply for it or to accept it when offered to him; or

(d) has, without good cause, neglected to avail himself of a reasonable opportunity of employment.

(7) In such circumstances as may be prescribed, including in particular where he has been dismissed by his employer by reason of redundancy within the meaning of [F15 section 139(1) of the Employment Rights Act 1996]after volunteering or agreeing to be so dismissed, a person who might otherwise be regarded as having left his employment voluntarily is to be treated as not having left voluntarily.

(8) Regulations may—

(a) prescribe matters which are, or are not, to be taken into account in determining whether a person—

(i) has, or does not have, good cause for any act or omission; or

(ii) has, or does not have, just cause for any act or omission; or

(b) prescribe circumstances in which a person—

(i) is, or is not, to be regarded as having, or not having, good cause for any act or omission; or

(ii) is, or is not, to be regarded as having, or not having, just cause for any act or omission.

(9) Subject to any regulations under subsection (8), in determining whether a person has, or does not have, good cause or (as the case may be) just cause for any act or omission, any matter relating to the level of remuneration in the employment in question shall be disregarded.

(10) In this section—

(a) “employment officer” means an officer of the Secretary of State or such other person as may be designated for the purposes of this section by an order made by the Secretary of State;

(b) “jobseeker’s direction” means a direction in writing given by an employment officer with a view to achieving one or both of the following—

(i) assisting the claimant to find employment;

(ii) improving the claimant’s prospects of being employed; and

(c) “training scheme" and “employment programme" have such meaning as may be prescribed.

Textual Amendments

F15 Words in s. 19(7) substituted (22.8.1996) by 1996 c. 18, s. 240, Sch. 1 para. 67(2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C9 S. 19 modified (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 159

S. 19 applied (with modifications) (4.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2570, reg. 3(1)

S. 19 excluded (E.W.) (17.12.1996) by S.I. 1996/2890, reg. 2(3)

S. 19 modified (temp. from 30.11.1998) by S.I. 1998/2825, regs. 1(1), 6(1)(2), 7, 9, 10 (with reg. 1(2))

Commencement Information

I15 S. 19 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 19 not in force at Royal Assent, see 41(2); s. 19(10)(a) in force at 12.12.1995 by S.I. 2000/3228, art. 2(a); s. 19(2)(4)(7)(8)(10)(c) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 19 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Valid from 10/06/2012

[F16 19A Other sanctions E+W+S

(1) The amount of an award of a jobseeker's allowance is to be reduced in accordance with this section in the event of a failure by the claimant which is sanctionable under this section.

(2) It is a failure sanctionable under this section if a claimant—

(a) without a good reason fails to comply with regulations under section 8(1) or (1A);

(b) without a good reason fails to comply with regulations under section 17A;

(c) without a good reason refuses or fails to carry out a jobseeker's direction which was reasonable having regard to his circumstances;

(d) without a good reason neglects to avail himself of a reasonable opportunity of a place on a training scheme or employment programme;

(e) without a good reason refuses or fails to apply for, or accept if offered, a place on such a scheme or programme which an employment officer has informed him is vacant or about to become vacant;

(f) without a good reason gives up a place on such a scheme or programme or fails to attend such a scheme or programme having been given a place on it;

(g) through misconduct loses a place on such a scheme or programme.

(3) But a failure is not sanctionable under this section if it is also sanctionable under section 19.

(4) Regulations are to provide for—

(a) the amount of a reduction under this section;

(b) the period for which such a reduction has effect.

(5) Regulations under subsection (4)(b) may provide that a reduction under this section in relation to any failure is to have effect for—

(a) a period continuing until the claimant meets a compliance condition specified by the Secretary of State,

(b) a fixed period not exceeding 26 weeks which is—

(i) specified in the regulations, or

(ii) determined in any case by the Secretary of State, or

(c) a combination of both.

(6) In subsection (5)(a) “compliance condition” means—

(a) a condition that the failure ceases, or

(b) a condition relating to—

(i) future compliance with a jobseeker's direction or any requirement imposed under section 8(1) or (1A) or 17A of this Act, or

(ii) future avoidance of the failures referred to in subsection (2)(d) to (g).

(7) A compliance condition specified under subsection (5)(a) may be—

(a) revoked or varied by the Secretary of State;

(b) notified to the claimant in such manner as the Secretary of State may determine.

(8) The period fixed under subsection (5)(b) may in particular depend on either or both of the following—

(a) the number of failures by the claimant sanctionable under this section;

(b) the period between such failures.

(9) Regulations may provide—

(a) for cases in which no reduction is to be made under this section;

(b) for a reduction under this section made in relation to an award that is terminated to be applied to any new award made within a prescribed period of the termination.

(10) During any period for which the amount of a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance is reduced under this section by virtue of a failure by one of the claimants which is sanctionable under this section, the allowance is payable to the other member of the couple.

(11) In this section—

(a) “jobseeker's direction” means a direction given by an employment officer (in such manner as he thinks fit) with a view to achieving one or both of the following—

(i) assisting the claimant to find employment;

(ii) improving the claimant's prospects of being employed;

(b) “training scheme“ and “employment programme” have such meaning as may be prescribed.

Textual Amendments

F14 S. 17C and preceding cross-heading inserted (12.11.2009) by Welfare Reform Act 2009 (c. 24), ss. 11, 61(1), Sch. 3 para. 1

F16 Ss. 19-19C substituted for s. 19 (10.6.2012 for the purposes of making regulations under ss. 19-19B, 22.10.2012 for the purposes of ss. 19-19B so far as not already in force, otherwise prosp.) by Welfare Reform Act 2012 (c. 5), ss. 46(1), 150(3); S.I. 2012/1246 {art. 2(3)(b)} (as that S.I. is amended by S.I. 2012/2530, art. 2(7)); S.I. 2012/2530, art. 2(2)(a)

Valid from 10/06/2012

19B Claimants ceasing to be available for employment etc E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision for reduction of the amount of an award of a jobseeker's allowance other than a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance if the claimant—

(a) was previously entitled to such an allowance or was a member of a couple entitled to a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance, and

(b) ceased to be so entitled by failing to comply with the condition in section 1(2)(a) or (c) (availability for employment and actively seeking employment).

(2) Regulations may make provision for reduction of the amount of a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance if one of the claimants—

(a) was previously entitled to a jobseeker's allowance other than a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance, and

(b) ceased to be so entitled by failing to comply with the condition in section 1(2)(a) or (c).

(3) Regulations may make provision for reduction of the amount of an award of joint-claim jobseeker's allowance if—

(a) the couple were previously entitled to a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance but ceased to be so entitled by either or both of them failing to comply with the condition in section 1(2)(a) or (c), or

(b) either member of the couple was a member of another couple previously entitled to such an allowance and that couple ceased to be so entitled by that person failing to comply with the condition in section 1(2)(a) or (c).

(4) Regulations are to provide for—

(a) the amount of a reduction under this section;

(b) the period for which such a reduction has effect.

(5) The period referred to in subsection (4)(b) must not include any period after the end of the period of 13 weeks beginning with the day on which the claimant's previous entitlement ceased.

(6) Regulations under subsection (4)(b) may in particular provide for the period of a reduction to depend on either or both of the following—

(a) the number of occasions on which a claimant's entitlement has ceased as specified in subsection (1), (2) or (3);

(b) the period between such occasions.

(7) Regulations may provide for a reduction under this section made in relation to an award that is terminated to be applied to any new award made within a prescribed period of the termination.

(8) During any period for which the amount of a joint-claim jobseeker's allowance is reduced under this section by virtue of a failure by one of the claimants to comply with the condition in section 1(2)(a) or (c), the allowance is payable to the other member of the couple.

Textual Amendments

F14 S. 17C and preceding cross-heading inserted (12.11.2009) by Welfare Reform Act 2009 (c. 24), ss. 11, 61(1), Sch. 3 para. 1

F16 Ss. 19-19C substituted for s. 19 (10.6.2012 for the purposes of making regulations under ss. 19-19B, 22.10.2012 for the purposes of ss. 19-19B so far as not already in force, otherwise prosp.) by Welfare Reform Act 2012 (c. 5), ss. 46(1), 150(3); S.I. 2012/1246 {art. 2(3)(b)} (as that S.I. is amended by S.I. 2012/2530, art. 2(7)); S.I. 2012/2530, art. 2(2)(a)

Valid from 10/06/2012

19C Hardship payments E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision for the making of payments (“hardship payments”) by way of a jobseeker's allowance to a claimant where—

(a) the amount of the claimant's award is reduced under sections 19 to 19B, and

(b) the claimant is or will be in hardship.

(2) Regulations under this section may in particular make provision as to—

(a) circumstances in which a claimant is to be treated as being or not being in hardship;

(b) matters to be taken into account in determining whether a claimant is or will be in hardship;

(c) requirements or conditions to be met by a claimant in order to receive hardship payments;

(d) the amount or rate of hardship payments;

(e) the period for which hardship payments may be made;

(f) whether hardship payments are recoverable.]

Textual Amendments

F14 S. 17C and preceding cross-heading inserted (12.11.2009) by Welfare Reform Act 2009 (c. 24), ss. 11, 61(1), Sch. 3 para. 1

F16 Ss. 19-19C substituted for s. 19 (10.6.2012 for the purposes of making regulations under ss. 19-19B, 22.10.2012 for the purposes of ss. 19-19B so far as not already in force, otherwise prosp.) by Welfare Reform Act 2012 (c. 5), ss. 46(1), 150(3); S.I. 2012/1246 {art. 2(3)(b)} (as that S.I. is amended by S.I. 2012/2530, art. 2(7)); S.I. 2012/2530, art. 2(2)(a)

20 Exemptions from section 19. E+W+S

(1) Nothing in section 19, or in regulations under that section, shall be taken to prevent payment of a jobseeker’s allowance merely because the claimant refuses to seek or accept employment in a situation which is vacant in consequence of a stoppage of work due to a trade dispute.

(2) Section 19 does not apply, in the circumstances mentioned in subsection (5) of that section, if—

(a) a direction is in force under section 16 with respect to the claimant; and

(b) he has acted in such a way as to risk—

(i) having that direction revoked under subsection (3)(b) of section 16; or

(ii) having the amount of his jobseeker’s allowance reduced by virtue of section 17, because he has failed to complete a course of training.

(3) Regulations shall make provision for the purpose of enabling any person of a prescribed description to accept any employed earner’s employment without falling within section 19(6)(b) or (d) should he leave that employment voluntarily and without just cause at any time during a trial period.

(4) In such circumstances as may be prescribed, an income-based jobseeker’s allowance shall be payable to a claimant even though section 19 prevents payment of a jobseeker’s allowance to him.

(5) A jobseeker’s allowance shall be payable by virtue of subsection (4) only if the claimant has complied with such requirements as to the provision of information as may be prescribed for the purposes of this subsection.

(6) Regulations under subsection (4) may, in particular, provide for a jobseeker’s allowance payable by virtue of that subsection to be—

(a) payable at a prescribed rate;

(b) payable for a prescribed period (which may differ from the period fixed under section 19(2) or (3)).

(7) In subsection (3), “trial period” has such meaning as may be prescribed.

(8) Regulations may make provision for determining, for the purposes of this section, the day on which a person’s employment is to be regarded as commencing.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C10 S. 20 modified (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 159

Commencement Information

I16 S. 20 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 20 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 20(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 20 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Valid from 19/03/2001

[F17 20A (1) Where this section applies to a member of a joint-claim couple, that member of the couple shall be subject to sanctions for the purposes of this section.

(2) This section applies to a member of a joint-claim couple if that member of the couple—

(a) has, without good cause, refused or failed to carry out any jobseeker’s direction which was reasonable, having regard to his circumstances;

(b) has, without good cause—

(i) neglected to avail himself of a reasonable opportunity of a place on a training scheme or employment programme;

(ii) after a place on such a scheme or programme has been notified to him by an employment officer as vacant or about to become vacant, refused or failed to apply for it or to accept it when offered to him;

(iii) given up a place on such a scheme or programme; or

(iv) failed to attend such a scheme or programme on which he has been given a place;

(c) has lost his place on such a scheme or programme through misconduct;

(d) has lost his employment as an employed earner through misconduct;

(e) has voluntarily left such employment without just cause;

(f) has, without good cause, after a situation in any employment has been notified to him by an employment officer as vacant or about to become vacant, refused or failed to apply for it or to accept it when offered to him; or

(g) has, without good cause, neglected to avail himself of a reasonable opportunity of employment.

(3) Where this section applies to a member of a joint-claim couple by virtue of any of paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection (2), the period for which he is to be subject to sanctions shall be such period (of at least one week but not more than 26 weeks) as may be prescribed.

(4) Where this section applies to a member of a joint-claim couple by virtue only of any of paragraphs (d) to (g) of subsection (2), the period for which he is to be subject to sanctions shall be such period (of at least one week but not more than 26 weeks) as may be determined by the Secretary of State.

(5) Even though the conditions for entitlement to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance are satisfied in relation to a joint-claim couple—

(a) the allowance shall not be payable for any period during which both members of the couple are subject to sanctions; and

(b) the amount of the allowance payable in respect of the couple for any period during which only one member of the couple is subject to sanctions shall be reduced to an amount calculated by the prescribed method (“the reduced amount”).

(6) The method prescribed for calculating the reduced amount may, in particular, involve—

(a) deducting amounts from, or making percentage reductions of, the amount which would be the amount of the allowance if neither member of the couple were subject to sanctions;

(b) disregarding portions of the applicable amount;

(c) treating amounts as being income or capital of the couple.

(7) During any period for which the amount of a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance payable in respect of a joint-claim couple is the reduced amount, the allowance shall be payable to the member of the couple who is not subject to sanctions.

(8) Regulations may prescribe—

(a) circumstances which the Secretary of State is to take into account, and

(b) circumstances which he is not to take into account,

in determining a period under subsection (4).

(9) Subsections (7) to (10) of section 19 apply for the purposes of this section as for those of that section but as if references in subsection (10)(b) of that section to the claimant were to the member of the joint-claim couple to whom subsection (2)(a) above applies.]

Textual Amendments

F17 Ss. 20A, 20B inserted (19.3.2001) by 1999 c. 30, s. 59, Sch. 7 para. 13; S.I. 2000/2958, art. 2(2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C11 S. 20A restricted (19.3.2001) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 74A(3) (as inserted (19.3.2001) by S.I. 2000/1978, reg. 2(5), Sch. 2 para. 30)

C12 S. 20A modified by S.I. 2003/2438, reg. 7 (as inserted (26.4.2004) by The Employment Zones (Amendment) Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/1043), reg. 2(f))

C13 S. 20A(5)(a)(b) restricted (19.3.2001) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 146C(6) (as inserted (19.3.2001) by S.I. 2000/1978, reg. 2(2))

C14 S. 20A(5)(a)(b) restricted (19.3.2001) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 146C(6) (as inserted (19.3.2001) by S.I. 2000/1978, reg. 2(2))

C15 S. 20A(6) applied (1.12.2000 for specified purposes and 15.10.2001 for further specified purposes and otherwise prosp. ) by 2000 c. 19, ss. 63(5), 86(1)(c)(2) (with s. 83(6)); S.I. 2000/2950, art. 5; S.I. 2001/2619, art. 2(1)(b)(ii)(2)(b)

S. 20A(6) applied (17.11.2001 for specified purposes and otherwise 1.4.2002) by 2001 c. 11, s. 8(5); S.I. 2001/3689, art. 2(1)

Valid from 19/03/2001

[F18 20B (1) Section 20A shall not be taken to apply to a member of a joint-claim couple merely because he has refused to seek or accept employment in a situation which is vacant in consequence of a stoppage of work due to a trade dispute.

(2) Section 20A does not apply to a member of a joint-claim couple by virtue of any of paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection (2) of that section if—

(a) a direction is in force under section 16 with respect to that member of the couple; and

(b) he has acted in such a way as to risk—

(i) having that direction revoked under subsection (3)(b) of section 16; or

(ii) having the amount of the couple’s entitlement to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance reduced by virtue of section 17 because the condition in section 17(3)(b) or (c) is established.

(3) Regulations shall make provision for the purpose of enabling any person of a prescribed description to accept any employed earner’s employment without section 20A applying to him by virtue of paragraph (e) or (g) of subsection (2) of that section should he leave that employment voluntarily and without just cause at any time during a trial period.

(4) In such circumstances as may be prescribed, a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance shall be payable in respect of a joint-claim couple even though section 20A(5)(a) prevents payment of such a jobseeker’s allowance to the couple.

(5) A jobseeker’s allowance shall be payable by virtue of subsection (4) only if the couple have complied with such requirements as to the provision of information as may be prescribed for the purposes of this subsection.

(6) Regulations under subsection (4) may, in particular, provide for a jobseeker’s allowance payable by virtue of that subsection to be—

(a) payable at a prescribed rate;

(b) payable for a prescribed period (which may differ from the period during which both members of the couple are subject to sanctions for the purposes of section 20A).

(7) In subsection (3), “trial period” has such meaning as may be prescribed.

(8) Regulations may make provision for determining, for the purposes of this section, the day on which a person’s employment is to be regarded as commencing.]

Textual Amendments

F18 Ss. 20A, 20B inserted (19.3.2001) by 1999 c. 30, s. 59, Sch. 7 para. 13; S.I. 2000/2958, art. 2(2)

Miscellaneous E+W+S

Valid from 09/03/2011

[F19 20E Contracting out] E+W+S

(1) The following functions of the Secretary of State may be exercised by, or by employees of, such person (if any) as the Secretary of State may authorise for the purpose, namely—

(a) conducting interviews under section 11A;

(b) providing documents under section 11C;

(c) giving, varying or revoking directions under section 18B(5);

(d) asking questions under paragraph 1 of Schedule A1;

(e) making decisions under paragraph 2 or 3 of that Schedule;

(f) exercising any functions in relation to rehabilitation plans under paragraph 5 or 6 of that Schedule.

(2) The following functions of officers of the Secretary of State may be exercised by, or by employees of, such person (if any) as the Secretary of State may authorise for the purpose, namely—

(a) specifying places and times, and being contacted, under section 8;

(b) entering into or varying any jobseeker's agreement under section 9 or 10 and referring any proposed agreement or variation to the Secretary of State under section 9 or 10;

(c) giving notifications under section 16 or 18A;

(d) giving, varying or revoking directions under section 18A.

(3) Regulations may provide for any of the following functions of the Secretary of State to be exercisable by, or by employees of, such person (if any) as the Secretary of State may authorise for the purpose—

(a) any function under regulations under section 8, 11A, 11C, 17A or 18B or Schedule A1, except the making of an excluded decision (see subsection (4));

(b) the function under section 9(1) of the 1998 Act (revision of decisions) so far as relating to decisions (other than excluded decisions) that relate to any matter arising under any such regulations;

(c) the function under section 10(1) of the 1998 Act (superseding of decisions) so far as relating to decisions (other than excluded decisions) of the Secretary of State that relate to any matter arising under any such regulations;

(d) any function under Chapter 2 of Part 1 of the 1998 Act (social security decisions), except section 25(2) and (3) (decisions involving issues arising on appeal in other cases), which relates to the exercise of any of the functions within paragraphs (a) to (c).

(4) Each of the following is an “excluded decision” for the purposes of subsection (3)—

(a) a decision about whether a person has failed to comply with a requirement imposed by regulations under section 8, 11A or 17A or Schedule A1;

(b) a decision about whether a person had good cause for failure to comply with such a requirement;

(c) a decision about not paying or reducing a jobseeker's allowance in consequence of a failure to comply with such a requirement.

(5) Regulations under subsection (3) may provide that a function to which that subsection applies may be exercised—

(a) either wholly or to such extent as the regulations may provide,

(b) either generally or in such cases as the regulations may provide, and

(c) either unconditionally or subject to the fulfilment of such conditions as the regulations may provide.

(6) An authorisation given by virtue of any provision made by or under this section may authorise the exercise of the function concerned—

(a) either wholly or to such extent as may be specified in the authorisation,

(b) either generally or in such cases as may be so specified, and

(c) either unconditionally or subject to the fulfilment of such conditions as may be so specified;

but, in the case of an authorisation given by virtue of regulations under subsection (3), this subsection is subject to the regulations.

(7) An authorisation given by virtue of any provision made by or under this section—

(a) may specify its duration,

(b) may be revoked at any time by the Secretary of State, and

(c) does not prevent the Secretary of State or any other person from exercising the function to which the authorisation relates.

(8) Anything done or omitted to be done by or in relation to an authorised person (or an employee of that person) in, or in connection with, the exercise or purported exercise of the function concerned is to be treated for all purposes as done or omitted to be done by or in relation to the Secretary of State or (as the case may be) an officer of the Secretary of State.

(9) But subsection (8) does not apply—

(a) for the purposes of so much of any contract made between the authorised person and the Secretary of State as relates to the exercise of the function, or

(b) for the purposes of any criminal proceedings brought in respect of anything done by the authorised person (or an employee of that person).

(10) Any decision which an authorised person makes in exercise of a function of the Secretary of State has effect as a decision of the Secretary of State under section 8 of the 1998 Act.

(11) Where—

(a) the authorisation of an authorised person is revoked at any time, and

(b) at the time of the revocation so much of any contract made between the authorised person and the Secretary of State as relates to the exercise of the function is subsisting,

the authorised person is entitled to treat the contract as repudiated by the Secretary of State (and not as frustrated by reason of the revocation).

(12) In this section—

(a) “the 1998 Act” means the Social Security Act 1998;

(b) “authorised person” means a person authorised to exercise any function by virtue of any provision made by or under this section;

(c) references to functions of the Secretary of State under any enactment (including one comprised in regulations) include functions which the Secretary of State has by virtue of the application of section 8(1)(c) of the 1998 Act in relation to the enactment.]

Textual Amendments

F14 S. 17C and preceding cross-heading inserted (12.11.2009) by Welfare Reform Act 2009 (c. 24), ss. 11, 61(1), Sch. 3 para. 1

F19 S. 20E inserted (9.3.2011 for specified purposes, otherwise prosp.) by Welfare Reform Act 2009 (c. 24), ss. 32(2), 61(3); S.I. 2011/682, art. 2(b)(c)

21 Supplementary provisions. E+W+S

Further provisions in relation to a jobseeker’s allowance are set out in Schedule 1.

Commencement Information

I17 S. 21 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 21 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 21 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 21 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

22 Members of the forces. E+W+S

(1) Regulations may modify any provision of this Act, in such manner as the Secretary of State thinks proper, in its application to persons who are or have been members of Her Majesty’s forces.

(2) The regulations may, in particular, provide for section 19(6)(b) not to apply in relation to a person who is discharged from Her Majesty’s forces at his own request.

(3) For the purposes of this section, Her Majesty’s forces shall be taken to consist of such establishments and organisations in which persons serve under the control of the Defence Council as may be prescribed.

Commencement Information

I18 S. 22 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 22 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 22 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 22 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

23 Recovery of sums in respect of maintenance. E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision for the court to have power to make a recovery order against any person where an award of income-based jobseeker’s allowance has been made to that person’s spouse.

(2) In this section “recovery order” means an order requiring the person against whom it is made to make payments to the Secretary of State or to such other person or persons as the court may determine.

(3) Regulations under this section may make provision for the transfer by the Secretary of State of the right to receive payments under, and to exercise rights in relation to, a recovery order.

(4) Regulations made under this section may, in particular, include provision—

(a) as to the matters to which the court is, or is not, to have regard in determining any application under the regulations; and

(b) as to the enforcement of recovery orders.

(5) In this section, “the court” means—

(a) in relation to England and Wales, a magistrates’ court; and

(b) in relation to Scotland, the sheriff.

Commencement Information

I19 S. 23 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 23 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 23 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 23 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

24 Effect of alteration of rates. E+W+S

In the Administration Act, insert after section 159—

“159A Effect of alteration of rates of a jobseeker’s allowance.

(1) This section applies where—

(a) an award of a jobseeker’s allowance is in force in favour of any person (“the recipient”); and

(b) an alteration—

(i) in any component of the allowance, or

(ii) in the recipient’s benefit income,

affects the amount of the jobseeker’s allowance to which he is entitled.

(2) Subsection (3) applies where, as a result of the alteration, the amount of the jobseeker’s allowance to which the recipient is entitled is increased or reduced.

(3) As from the commencing date, the amount of the jobseeker’s allowance payable to or for the recipient under the award shall be the increased or reduced amount, without any further decision of an adjudication officer; and the award shall have effect accordingly.

(4) In any case where—

(a) there is an alteration of a kind mentioned in subsection (1)(b); and

(b) before the commencing date (but after that date is fixed) an award of a jobseeker’s allowance is made in favour of a person,

the award may provide for the jobseeker’s allowance to be paid as from the commencing date, in which case the amount of the jobseeker’s allowance shall be determined by reference to the components applicable on that date, or may provide for an amount determined by reference to the components applicable at the date of the award.

(5) In this section—

• “alteration” means-

  (a)

  in relation to any component of a jobseeker’s allowance, its alteration by or under any enactment; and

  (b)

  in relation to a person’s benefit income, the alteration of any of the sums referred to in section 150 above by any enactment or by an order under section 150 above, to the extent that any such alteration affects the amount of the recipient’s benefit income;

• “benefit income”, in relation to a recipient, means so much of his income as consists of—

  (a)

  benefit under the Contributions and Benefits Act; or

  (b)

  a war disablement pension or war widow’s pension;

• “the commencing date” in relation to an alteration, means the date on which the alteration comes into force in relation to the recipient;

• “component”, in relation to a jobseeker’s allowance, means any of the sums specified in regulations under the Jobseekers Act 1995 which are relevant in calculating the amount payable by way of a jobseeker’s allowance.”

25 Age increases. E+W+S

In the Administration Act, insert after section 160—

“160A Implementation of increases in income-based jobseeker’s allowance due to attainment of particular ages.

(1) This section applies where—

(a) an award of an income-based jobseeker’s allowance is in force in favour of a person (“the recipient"); and

(b) a component has become applicable, or applicable at a particular rate, because he or some other person has reached a particular age (“the qualifying age").

(2) If, as a result of the recipient or other person reaching the qualifying age, the recipient becomes entitled to an income-based jobseeker’s allowance of an increased amount, the amount payable to or for him under the award shall, as from the day on which he becomes so entitled, be that increased amount, without any further decision of an adjudication officer; and the award shall have effect accordingly.

(3) Subsection (2) above does not apply where, in consequence of the recipient or other person reaching the qualifying age, a question arises in relation to the recipient’s entitlement to—

(a) a benefit under the Contributions and Benefits Act; or

(b) a jobseeker’s allowance.

(4) Subsection (3)(b) above does not apply to the question—

(a) whether the component concerned, or any other component, becomes or ceases to be applicable, or applicable at a particular rate, in the recipient’s case; and

(b) whether, in consequence, the amount of his income-based jobseeker’s allowance falls to be varied.

(5) In this section “component”, in relation to a recipient and his jobseeker’s allowance, means any of the amounts determined in accordance with regulations made under section 4(5) of the Jobseekers Act 1995.”

Part II E+W+S Back to Work Schemes

26 The back to work bonus. E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision for the payment, in prescribed circumstances, of sums to or in respect of persons who are or have been entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance or to income support.

(2) A sum payable under the regulations shall be known as “a back to work bonus”.

(3) Subject to section 617 of the M2 Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988 (which, as amended by paragraph 16 of Schedule 2, provides for a back to work bonus not to be taxable), a back to work bonus shall be treated for all purposes as payable by way of a jobseeker’s allowance or (as the case may be) income support.

(4) The regulations may, in particular, provide for—

(a) a back to work bonus to be payable only on the occurrence of a prescribed event;

(b) a bonus not to be payable unless a claim is made before the end of the prescribed period;

(c) the amount of a bonus (subject to any maximum prescribed by virtue of paragraph (g)) to be determined in accordance with the regulations;

(d) enabling amounts to be calculated by reference to periods of entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance and periods of entitlement to income support;

(e) treating a bonus as payable wholly by way of income support or wholly by way of a jobseeker’s allowance, in a case where amounts have been calculated in accordance with provision made by virtue of paragraph (d);

(f) keeping persons who may be entitled to a bonus informed of the amounts calculated in accordance with any provision of the regulations made by virtue of paragraph (c);

(g) the amount of a bonus not to exceed a prescribed maximum;

(h) a bonus not to be payable if the amount of the bonus which would otherwise be payable is less than the prescribed minimum;

(i) prescribed periods to be disregarded for prescribed purposes;

(j) a bonus which has been paid to a person to be treated, in prescribed circumstances and for prescribed purposes, as income or capital of his or of any other member of his family;

(k) treating the whole or a prescribed part of an amount which has accrued towards a person’s bonus—

(i) as not having accrued towards his bonus; but

(ii) as having accrued towards the bonus of another person;

(l) the whole or a prescribed part of a back to work bonus to be payable, in such circumstances as may be prescribed, to such person, other than the person who is or had been entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance or to income support, as may be determined in accordance with the regulations.

Commencement Information

I20 S. 26 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 26 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 26 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 26 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

Marginal Citations

M2 1988 c. 1.

27 Employment of long-term unemployed: deductions by employers. E+W+S

(1) An employee is a “qualifying employee” in relation to his employer for the purposes of this section if, immediately before beginning his employment with that employer, he had been entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance for a continuous period of not less than two years.

(2) An employee is also a “qualifying employee” in relation to his employer for the purposes of this section if—

(a) immediately before beginning his employment with that employer, he had been unemployed for a continuous period of not less than two years;

(b) he is under pensionable age; and

(c) he falls within a prescribed description of person.

(3) Regulations may make provision for any employer who employs a person who is a qualifying employee in relation to him, to make deductions from the employer’s contributions payments in accordance with the regulations and in prescribed circumstances.

(4) Those regulations may, in particular, make provision as to the period for which deductions may be made by an employer.

(5) Regulations may provide, in relation to cases where an employee is a qualifying employee in relation to more than one employer at the same time, for the right to make deductions to be confined to one employer—

(a) determined in accordance with the regulations; and

(b) certified by the Secretary of State, in accordance with the regulations, to be the employer entitled to make those deductions.

(6) Regulations may—

(a) provide that, in prescribed circumstances, a person who would not otherwise satisfy the condition in subsection (1) is to be treated as satisfying it;

(b) provide that, in prescribed circumstances, a person who would not otherwise satisfy the condition in subsection (2)(a) is to be treated as satisfying it;

(c) prescribe circumstances in which, for prescribed purposes, two or more employers are to be treated as one;

(d) make provision for the payment, in prescribed circumstances, by the Secretary of State or by the Commissioners of Inland Revenue on behalf of the Secretary of State, of sums to employers who are unable to make the whole or part of any deductions which they are entitled to make;

(e) require persons to maintain such records in connection with deductions made by them as may be prescribed;

(f) require persons who have made deductions to furnish to the Secretary of State such documents and information, at such time, as may be prescribed.

(7) Where, in accordance with any provision of regulations made under this section, an amount has been deducted from an employer’s contributions payments, the amount so deducted shall (except in such cases as may be prescribed) be treated for the purposes of any provision made by or under any enactment in relation to primary or secondary Class 1 contributions as having been—

(a) paid (on such date as may be determined in accordance with the regulations); and

(b) received by the Secretary of State,

towards discharging the employer’s liability in respect of such contributions.

(8) In this section—

• “contributions payments”, in relation to an employer, means the aggregate of the payments which he is required to make by way of primary or secondary Class 1 contributions;

• “deductions” means deductions made in accordance with regulations under subsection (3); and

• “employee” and “employer” have such meaning as may be prescribed.

Commencement Information

I21 S. 27 wholly in force at 6.4.1996; s. 27 not in force at Royal Assent, see s, 41(2); s. 27 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(c)(i) and in force (6.4.1996) for all other purposes by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(c)(ii)

28 Expedited claims for housing benefit and council tax benefit. E+W+S

(1) This section provides for the making of regulations to enable—

(a) information to be passed between authorities, and

(b) priority to be given to certain persons,

with a view to claims for housing or council tax benefit made by or in respect of persons who cease to be entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance or income support being dealt with quickly.

(2) In the Administration Act, insert after section 128—

“ Expedited claims for housing and council tax benefit E+W+S

128A Disclosure of information by authorities.

(1) Regulations may make provision requiring the disclosure by one authority (“the disclosing authority") to another authority (“the receiving authority"), in prescribed circumstances, of information of a prescribed description obtained by the disclosing authority in respect of persons who have been entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance or to income support.

(2) The regulations may in particular provide for—

(a) information to be disclosed—

(i) at the request of the receiving authority;

(ii) at the request of any person who falls within a prescribed category; or

(iii) otherwise than in response to such a request;

(b) the period within which information is to be disclosed; and

(c) information to be disclosed only if it has been obtained by the disclosing authority in the exercise of any of their functions in relation to housing benefit or council tax benefit.”

(3) In section 63 of the Administration Act (adjudication of claims for housing benefit or council tax benefit), insert after subsection (2)—

“(2A) Regulations may make provision requiring authorities to whom claims for housing benefit or council tax benefit are made by, or in respect of, persons who have been entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance or to income support to give priority, in prescribed circumstances, to those claims over other claims for any such benefit.”

Commencement Information

I22 S. 28 wholly in force at 1.4.1996; s. 28 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 28 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(d)(i) and in force (1.4.1996) for all other purposes by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(d)(ii)

29 Pilot schemes. E+W+S

(1) Any regulations to which this subsection applies may be made so as to have effect for a specified period not exceeding 12 months.

(2) Any regulations which, by virtue of subsection (1), are to have effect for a limited period are referred to in this section as “a pilot scheme”.

(3) A pilot scheme may provide that its provisions are to apply only in relation to—

(a) one or more specified areas or localities;

(b) one or more specified classes of person;

(c) persons selected—

(i) by reference to prescribed criteria; or

(ii) on a sampling basis.

(4) A pilot scheme may make consequential or transitional provision with respect to the cessation of the scheme on the expiry of the specified period.

(5) A pilot scheme (“the previous scheme") may be replaced by a further pilot scheme making the same, or similar, provision (apart from the specified period) to that made by the previous scheme.

(6) Subject to subsection (8), subsection (1) applies to—

(a) regulations made under this Act, other than—

(i) regulations made under section 4(2) or (5) which have the effect of reducing any age-related amount or applicable amount; or

(ii) regulations made under section 27;

(b) regulations made under the Administration Act, so far as they relate to a jobseeker’s allowance;

(c) regulations made under Part VII of the Benefits Act (income-related benefits), other than any mentioned in subsection (7); and

(d) regulations made under the Administration Act, so far as they relate to income-related benefits payable under Part VII of the Benefits Act.

(7) The regulations referred to in subsection (6)(c) are—

(a) regulations under section 128(5) of the Benefits Act which have the effect of reducing the appropriate maximum family credit;

(b) regulations under section 129(8) of that Act which have the effect of reducing the appropriate maximum disability working allowance;

(c) regulations under section 130(4) of that Act which have the effect of reducing the appropriate maximum housing benefit;

(d) regulations under section 131(10)(a) of that Act which have the effect of reducing the appropriate maximum council tax benefit; and

(e) regulations reducing any of the sums prescribed under section 135(1) of that Act.

(8) Subsection (1) applies only if the regulations are made with a view to ascertaining whether their provisions will, or will be likely to, encourage persons to obtain or remain in work or will, or will be likely to, facilitate the obtaining by persons of work or their remaining in work.

Part III U.K. Miscellaneous and Supplemental

30 Grants for resettlement places. E+W+S

(1) The Secretary of State may pay such grants, to such persons, as he considers appropriate in relation to expenditure in connection with the provision or maintenance of resettlement places.

(2) In this section “resettlement places” means places at which persons without a settled way of life are afforded temporary accommodation with a view to assisting them to lead a more settled life.

(3) Any grant under this section may be made on such terms and subject to such conditions as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

(4) Section 30 of, and Schedule 5 to, the M3 Supplementary Benefits Act 1976 (provision of resettlement units) shall cease to have effect.

(5) Any grants made by the Secretary of State under this section shall be paid out of money provided by Parliament.

(6) Any sums received by the Secretary of State by way of the repayment of any such grant shall be paid by him into the Consolidated Fund.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C16 S. 30: transfer of functions (1.4.2000) by S.I. 2000/253, art. 2, Sch. 1

Marginal Citations

M3 1976 c. 71.

31 Termination of awards. E+W+S

(1) Regulations may make provision allowing, in prescribed circumstances, an award of income support to be brought to an end by an adjudication officer where the person to whom it was made, or where he is a member of a married or unmarried couple his partner, will be entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance if the award is brought to an end.

(2) Regulations may make provision allowing, in prescribed circumstances, an award of a jobseeker’s allowance to be brought to an end by an adjudication officer where the person to whom it was made, or where he is a member of a married or unmarried couple his partner, will be entitled to income support if the award is brought to an end.

(3) In this section “partner” means the other member of the couple concerned.

Commencement Information

I23 S. 31 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 31 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 31 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 31 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

32 Insolvency. E+W+S

(1) In section 71 of the Administration Act (overpayments), after subsection (10) insert—

“(10A) Where—

(a) a jobseeker’s allowance is payable to a person from whom any amount is recoverable as mentioned in subsection (8) above; and

(b) that person is subject to a bankruptcy order,

a sum deducted from that benefit under that subsection shall not be treated as income of his for the purposes of the Insolvency Act 1986.

(10B) Where—

(a) a jobseeker’s allowance is payable to a person from whom any amount is recoverable as mentioned in subsection (8) above; and

(b) the estate of that person is sequestrated,

a sum deducted from that benefit under that subsection shall not be treated as income of his for the purposes of the Bankruptcy (Scotland) Act 1985.”

(2) In section 78 of the Administration Act (recovery of social fund awards), after subsection (3) insert—

“(3A) Where—

(a) a jobseeker’s allowance is payable to a person from whom an award is recoverable under subsection (3) above; and

(b) that person is subject to a bankruptcy order,

a sum deducted from that benefit under subsection (2) above shall not be treated as income of his for the purposes of the Insolvency Act 1986.

(3B) Where—

(a) a jobseeker’s allowance is payable to a person from whom an award is recoverable under subsection (3) above; and

(b) the estate of that person is sequestrated,

a sum deducted from that benefit under subsection (2) above shall not be treated as income of his for the purposes of the Bankruptcy (Scotland) Act 1985.”

33 Inspectors. E+W+S

(1) An inspector appointed under section 110 of the Administration Act (appointment and powers of inspectors) shall have power, for purposes of this Act—

(a) to enter at all reasonable times any premises liable to inspection under this section;

(b) to make such examination and inquiry there as may be necessary for ascertaining whether the provisions of this Act are being, or have been, complied with;

(c) to examine, either alone or (if he thinks fit) in the presence of any other person, in relation to any matters arising under this Act on which he may reasonably require information, any person whom he finds there;

(d) to exercise such other powers as may be necessary for carrying this Act into effect.

(2) The premises liable to inspection under this section are any where an inspector has reasonable grounds for supposing that—

(a) one or more persons are employed;

(b) a trade or business is being carried on;

(c) a personal or occupational pension scheme is being administered; or

(d) information relating to the carrying on of any trade or business is kept by the person carrying on that trade or business,

but do not include a private dwelling-house unless the inspector has reasonable grounds for supposing that the dwelling-house is being used for the purposes of a trade or business.

(3) An inspector applying for admission to any premises, in the exercise of his powers under this section, shall produce his certificate of appointment if asked to do so.

(4) Where any premises—

(a) are liable to be inspected by an inspector or officer appointed or employed by another government department, or

(b) are under the control of another government department,

the Secretary of State may make arrangements with that department for any of the powers or duties of inspectors under this section to be exercised or discharged by an inspector or officer employed by that department.

(5) A person to whom this subsection applies shall—

(a) furnish to an inspector all such information, and

(b) produce for his inspection all such documents,

as the inspector may reasonably require for purposes of this Act.

(6) Subsection (5) applies to—

(a) any licensing authority;

(b) any person carrying on an agency or other business for the introduction or supply to persons requiring them of persons available to do work or to perform services.

(7) Except where subsection (5) applies, subsections (6) and (7) of section 110 of the Administration Act (furnishing of information about contributions etc.) shall have effect as if this Act were among those mentioned in subsection (8) of that section.

(8) In the application of subsection (7) of section 110 in relation to this Act, the reference in paragraph (a) to section 110 of that Act shall be read as a reference to this section.

(9) No person shall be required under this section to answer any questions or to give evidence tending to incriminate himself, or in the case of a person who is married, his or her spouse.

(10) In this section—

• “licensing authority” means a local authority acting in its capacity as an authority responsible for granting any licence; and

• “local authority” means any of the following—

  (i)

  a county council;

  (ii)

  any county borough council;

  (iii)

  any district council;

  (iv)

  any council constituted under section 2 of the M4 Local Government etc. (Scotland) Act 1994;

  (v)

  any London borough council;

  (vi)

  the Common Council of the City of London;

  (vii)

  the Council of the Isles of Scilly.

(11) In this section, and in subsection (7) of section 110 of the Administration Act, as it applies in relation to this Act, “premises” includes any—

(a) place;

(b) movable structure or tent;

(c) vehicle, vessel, aircraft or hovercraft;

(d) installation which is an offshore installation for the purposes of the M5 Mineral Workings (Offshore Installations) Act 1971.

Marginal Citations

M4 1994 c. 39.

M5 1971 c. 61.

34 Offences. E+W+S

(1) A person is guilty of an offence if, for the purpose of obtaining a jobseeker’s allowance (whether for himself or for some other person) or for any other purpose connected with this Act, he—

(a) makes a statement or representation which he knows to be false; or

(b) produces or furnishes, or knowingly causes or knowingly allows to be produced or furnished, any document or information which he knows to be false in a material particular.

(2) A person is guilty of an offence if he—

(a) intentionally delays or obstructs an inspector in the exercise of any power under section 33; or

(b) refuses or neglects to answer any question or to furnish any information or to produce any document when required to do so under that section.

(3) Regulations under section 27 may provide for contravention of, or failure to comply with, any of their provisions to be an offence.

(4) A person guilty of an offence under subsection (1) shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 3 months, or to both.

(5) A person guilty of an offence under subsection (2), or under any regulations made under section 27, shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale.

(6) A person who is convicted of an offence under subsection (2)(b)—

(a) is guilty of a further offence if the refusal or neglect is continued by him after his conviction; and

(b) shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding £40 for each day on which it is continued.

(7) A person who is convicted of an offence of contravening or failing to comply with any regulations under section 27 (“the original offence")—

(a) is guilty of a further offence if the contravention or failure is continued by him after his conviction, and

(b) shall be liable to a fine not exceeding £40 for each day on which the contravention or failure is continued,

if regulations provide for this subsection to apply in relation to the original offence.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C17 S. 34(7) applied (6.4.1996) by S.I. 1996/195, reg. 12(2)

Commencement Information

I24 S. 34 wholly in force; s. 34 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 34(3)(7) in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(c)(i); s. 34(3)(7) in force (6.4.1996) for all other purposes by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(c)(ii); s. 34 in force (6.4.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(g)

35 Interpretation. E+W+S

(1) In this Act—

• “adjudication officer” means an adjudication officer appointed under section 38 of the Administration Act;

• “the Administration Act” means the M6 Social Security Administration Act 1992;

• “applicable amount” means the applicable amount determined in accordance with regulations under section 4;

• “benefit year” has the meaning given by section 2(4);

• “the Benefits Act” means the M7 Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992;

• “child” means a person under the age of 16;

• “claimant” means a person who claims a jobseeker’s allowance;

• “continental shelf operations” has the same meaning as in section 120 of the Benefits Act;

• “contribution-based conditions” means the conditions set out in section 2;

• “contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance” has the meaning given in section 1(4);

• “employed earner” has the meaning prescribed for the purposes of this Act;

• “employment”, except in section 7, has the meaning prescribed for the purposes of this Act;

• “entitled”, in relation to a jobseeker’s allowance, is to be construed in accordance with—

  (a)

  the provisions of this Act relating to entitlement; and

  (b)

  sections 1 and 68 of the Administration Act;

• “family” means—

  (a)

  a married or unmarried couple;

  (b)

  a married or unmarried couple and a member of the same household for whom one of them is, or both are, responsible and who is a child or a person of a prescribed description;

  (c)

  except in prescribed circumstances, a person who is not a member of a married or unmarried couple and a member of the same household for whom that person is responsible and who is a child or a person of a prescribed description;

• “Great Britain” includes the territorial waters of the United Kingdom adjacent to Great Britain;

• “income-based conditions” means the conditions set out in section 3;

• “income-based jobseeker’s allowance” has the meaning given in section 1(4);

• “jobseeker’s agreement” has the meaning given by section 9(1);

• “jobseeking period” has the meaning prescribed for the purposes of this Act;

• “married couple” means a man and woman who are married to each other and are members of the same household;

• “occupational pension scheme” has the same meaning as it has in the M8 Pension Schemes Act 1993 by virtue of section 1 of that Act;

• “pensionable age” has the meaning prescribed for the purposes of this Act;

• “pension payments” means—

  (a)

  periodical payments made in relation to a person, under a personal pension scheme or, in connection with the coming to an end of an employment of his, under an occupational pension scheme or a public service pension scheme; and

  (b)

  such other payments as may be prescribed;

• “personal pension scheme” means—

  (a)

  a personal pension scheme as defined by section 1 of the M9 Pension Schemes Act 1993;

  (b)

  a contract or trust scheme approved under Chapter III of Part XIV of the M10 Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988; and

  (c)

  a personal pension scheme approved under Chapter IV of that Part of that Act;

• “prescribed” means specified in or determined in accordance with regulations;

• “public service pension scheme” has the same meaning as it has in the M11 Pension Schemes Act 1993 by virtue of section 1 of that Act;

• “regulations” means regulations made by the Secretary of State;

• “tax year” means the 12 months beginning with 6th April in any year;

• “trade dispute” means any dispute between employers and employees, or between employees and employees, which is connected with the employment or non-employment or the terms of employment or the conditions of employment of any persons, whether employees in the employment of the employer with whom the dispute arises, or not;

• “training” has the meaning prescribed for the purposes of this Act and, in relation to prescribed provisions of this Act, if regulations so provide, includes assistance to find training or employment, or to improve a person’s prospects of being employed, of such a kind as may be prescribed;

• “unmarried couple” means a man and woman who are not married to each other but are living together as husband and wife otherwise than in prescribed circumstances;

• “week” means a period of 7 days beginning with a Sunday or such other period of 7 days as may be prescribed;

• “work” has the meaning prescribed for the purposes of this Act;

• “year”, except in the expression “benefit year", means a tax year.

(2) The expressions “capable of work”, “linked period”, “relevant education” and “remunerative work” are to be read with paragraphs 2, 3, 14 and 1 of Schedule 1.

(3) Subject to any regulations made for the purposes of this subsection, “earnings” is to be construed for the purposes of this Act in accordance with section 3 of the Benefits Act and paragraph 6 of Schedule 1 to this Act.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C18 Definition in s. 35(1) modified (7.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/207, reg. 160

Marginal Citations

M6 1992 c. 5.

M7 1992 c. 4.

M8 1993 c. 48.

M9 1993 c. 48.

M10 1988 c. 1.

M11 1993 c. 48.

36 Regulations and orders. E+W+S

(1) Any power under this Act to make regulations or orders, other than an order under section 9(13) or 19(10)(a), shall be exercisable by statutory instrument.

(2) Any such power may be exercised—

(a) either in relation to all cases to which it extends, or in relation to those cases subject to specified exceptions, or in relation to any specified cases or classes of case;

(b) so as to make, as respects the cases in relation to which it is exercised—

(i) the full provision to which the power extends or any less provision (whether by way of exception or otherwise),

(ii) the same provision for all cases in relation to which it is exercised, or different provision for different cases or different classes of case or different provision as respects the same case or class of case for different purposes of this Act,

(iii) any such provision either unconditionally or subject to any specified condition.

(3) Where any such power is expressed to be exercisable for alternative purposes it may be exercised in relation to the same case for any or all of those purposes.

(4) Any such power includes power—

(a) to make such incidental, supplemental, consequential or transitional provision as appears to the Secretary of State to be expedient; and

(b) to provide for a person to exercise a discretion in dealing with any matter.

(5) Any power to make regulations or an order for the purposes of any provision of this Act is without prejudice to any power to make regulations or an order for the purposes of any other provision.

37 Parliamentary control. E+W+S

(1) Subsection (2) applies in relation to the following regulations (whether made alone or with other regulations)—

(a) regulations made under, or by virtue of, any provision of this Act other than—

(i) section 6, 7, 26, 29 or 40,

(ii) paragraph (b) of the definition of “pension payments” in section 35(1), or

(iii) paragraph 17 of Schedule 1,

before the date on which jobseeker’s allowances first become payable;

(b) the first regulations to be made under section 26;

(c) regulations made under section 6, 7, 29, paragraph (b) of the definition of “pension payments” in section 35(1) or paragraph 17 of Schedule 1.

(2) No regulations to which this subsection applies shall be made unless a draft of the statutory instrument containing the regulations has been laid before Parliament and approved by a resolution of each House.

(3) Any other statutory instrument made under this Act, other than one made under section 41(2), shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

38 General financial arrangements. E+W+S

(1) There shall be paid out of money provided by Parliament—

(a) any sums paid by the Secretary of State by way of jobseeker’s allowance; and

(b) any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State under or by virtue of this Act.

(2) The expenditure mentioned in subsection (1)(b) includes expenditure incurred in connection with any inquiry undertaken on behalf of the Secretary of State with a view to obtaining statistics relating to the operation of any provision of this Act relating to a jobseeker’s allowance.

(3) There shall be paid out of the National Insurance Fund and into the Consolidated Fund sums estimated by the Secretary of State to balance payments made by him by way of contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance.

(4) The Secretary of State shall pay into the National Insurance Fund sums estimated by him to balance sums recovered by him in connection with payments of contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance.

(5) The Secretary of State shall pay into the National Insurance Fund sums estimated by him to be equal to the aggregate of the amounts deducted by employers in accordance with regulations under section 27.

(6) The Secretary of State shall pay into the Consolidated Fund sums estimated by him to balance sums recovered by him in connection with payments made by way of income-based jobseeker’s allowance.

(7) Estimates under this section shall be made by the Secretary of State—

(a) in any manner which, after consulting the Government Actuary or the Deputy Government Actuary, he considers appropriate and the Treasury has approved; and

(b) at such times as he considers appropriate and the Treasury has approved.

(8) Payments which are required to be made by this section shall be made at such times and in such manner as the Secretary of State considers appropriate and the Treasury has approved.

Commencement Information

I25 S. 38 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 38 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 38(1)(b)(5) in force (6.4.1996) by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(g); s. 38 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

39 Provision for Northern Ireland. U.K.

An Order in Council under paragraph 1(1)(b) of Schedule 1 to the M12 Northern Ireland Act 1974 (legislation for Northern Ireland in the interim period) which states that it is made only for purposes corresponding to those of this Act—

(a) shall not be subject to paragraph 1(4) and (5) of that Schedule (affirmative resolution of both Houses of Parliament); but

(b) shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

Marginal Citations

M12 1974 c. 28.

40 Transitional provisions. E+W+S

(1) The Secretary of State may by regulations make such transitional provision, consequential provision or savings as he considers necessary or expedient for the purposes of or in connection with—

(a) the coming into force of any provision of this Act; or

(b) the operation of any enactment repealed or amended by any such provision during any period when the repeal or amendment is not wholly in force.

(2) Regulations under this section may in particular make provision—

(a) for the termination or cancellation of awards of unemployment benefit or income support;

(b) for a person whose award of unemployment benefit or income support has been terminated or cancelled under regulations made by virtue of paragraph (a) to be treated as having been awarded a jobseeker’s allowance (a “transitional allowance")—

(i) of such a kind,

(ii) for such period,

(iii) of such an amount, and

(iv) subject to such conditions,

as may be determined in accordance with the regulations;

(c) for a person’s continuing entitlement to a transitional allowance to be determined by reference to such provision as may be made by the regulations;

(d) for the termination of an award of a transitional allowance;

(e) for the review of an award of a transitional allowance;

(f) for a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance not to be payable for a prescribed period where a person is disqualified for receiving unemployment benefit;

(g) that days which were days of unemployment for the purposes of entitlement to unemployment benefit, and such other days as may be prescribed, are to be treated as having been days during which a person was, or would have been, entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance;

(h) that days which were days of entitlement to unemployment benefit, and such other days as may be prescribed, are to be treated as having been days of entitlement to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance;

(i) that the rate of a contribution-based transitional allowance is to be calculated by reference to the rate of unemployment benefit paid or payable.

Commencement Information

I26 S. 40 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 40 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 40 in force (12.12.1995) for the purpose of authorising the making of regulations by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 40 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)

41 Short title, commencement, extent etc. U.K.

(1) This Act may be cited as the Jobseekers Act 1995.

(2) Section 39 and this section (apart from subsections (4) and (5)) come into force on the passing of this Act, but otherwise the provisions of this Act come into force on such day as the Secretary of State may by order appoint.

(3) Different days may be appointed for different purposes.

(4) Schedule 2 makes consequential amendments.

(5) The repeals set out in Schedule 3 shall have effect.

(6) Apart from this section, section 39 and paragraphs 11 to 16, 28, 67 and 68 of Schedule 2, this Act does not extend to Northern Ireland.

Subordinate Legislation Made

P1 S. 41(2) power partly exercised: different dates appointed for specified provisions by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2

S. 41(2) power partly exercised: 22.4.1996 appointed for specific provisions by S.I. 1996/1126, art. 2

S. 41(2) power partly exercised: 11.6.1996 appointed for specified provisions by S.I. 1996/1509, art. 2, Sch.

S. 41(2) power fully exercised: different dates appointed for specified provisions by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2

Commencement Information

I27 S. 41 wholly in force at 7.10.1996; s. 41(1)-(3)(6) in force at Royal Assent, see s. 41(2); s. 41(4) in force (12.12.1995) in so far as it refers to Sch. 2 para. 30(5) by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(b), Sch.; s. 41(5) in force (1.4.1996) in so far as it relates to the repeals in Sch. 3 of 1976 c. 71 by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(f); s. 41(4) in force (6.4.1996) in so far as it relates to Sch. 2 para. 41 by S.I. 1995/3228, art. 2(g); s. 41(4) in force (22.4.1996) for specified provisions in Sch. 2 by S.I. 1996/1126, art. 2(b); s. 41(4) in force (11.6.1996) for specified provisions in Sch. 2 by S.I. 1996/1509, art. 2, Sch.; s. 41(4) in force (2.9.1996) for specified provisions in Sch. 2 by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(a); s. 41 in force (7.10.1996) in so far as not already in force by S.I. 1996/2208, art. 2(b)