- Latest available (Revised)
- Point in Time (12/04/2021)
- Original (As made)
Version Superseded: 12/05/2021
Point in time view as at 12/04/2021.
There are outstanding changes not yet made by the legislation.gov.uk editorial team to The Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations 1996. Any changes that have already been made by the team appear in the content and are referenced with annotations.
Changes and effects yet to be applied by the editorial team are only applicable when viewing the latest version or prospective version of legislation. They are therefore not accessible when viewing legislation as at a specific point in time. To view the ‘Changes to Legislation’ information for this provision return to the latest version view using the options provided in the ‘What Version’ box above.
46.—(1) Paragraph 4 of Schedule 1 to the Act shall not apply in a case where–
(a)a person’s entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance commences within 12 weeks of an entitlement of his to income support, incapacity benefit[F1, employment and support allowance] or [F2carer’s allowance] coming to an end; or
(b)a claim for a jobseeker’s allowance falls to be determined by reference to section 3(1)(f)(ii) (persons under the age of 18)[F3; or]
[F4(c)a joint-claim couple are entitled to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance in respect of themselves and that paragraph of that Schedule has already applied to one member of that couple in respect of a jobseeking period which is linked to a jobseeking period relating to that member which has commenced by virtue of his having claimed a jobseeker’s allowance as a member of that couple;
(d)a joint-claim couple have claimed a jobseeker’s allowance jointly within 12 weeks of either member of that couple being entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance, income support, incapacity benefit[F5, employment and support allowance] or [F2carer’s allowance];
(e)a member of a joint-claim couple is both in receipt of a training allowance and the nominated member for the purposes of section 3B.]
(2) In the case of a person to whom paragraph 4 of Schedule 1 to the Act applies, the number of days is [F67].
Textual Amendments
F1Words in reg. 46(1)(a) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(6)(a)
F2Words in reg. 46 substituted (1.4.2003) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003/511), regs. 1, 3(4)(5)
F3Word in reg. 46(1)(b) inserted (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 10(a)
F4Reg. 46(1)(c)-(e) added (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 10(b)
F5Words in reg. 46(1)(d) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(6)(b)
F6Word in reg. 46(2) substituted (27.10.2014) by The Social Security (Jobseeker’s Allowance and Employment and Support Allowance) (Waiting Days) Amendment Regulations 2014 (S.I. 2014/2309), regs. 1, 2(1) (with reg. 4(1))
47.—(1) For the purposes of the Act, but subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), the “jobseeking period" means any period throughout which the claimant satisfies or is treated as satisfying the conditions specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) and (e) to (i) of subsection (2) of section 1 (conditions of entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance).
(2) Any period in which–
(a)a claimant does not satisfy any of the requirements in section 1(2)(a) to (c), and
(b)a jobseeker’s allowance is payable to him in accordance with Part IX (Hardship), [F7or, where the claimant is a member of a joint-claim couple, a jobseeker’s allowance is payable in accordance with Part IXA (hardship)]
shall, for the purposes of paragraph (1), be treated as a period in which the claimant satisfies the conditions specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection (2) of section 1.
[F8(2A) Any period in which a claimant is entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance in accordance with regulation 11(3) of the Jobseeker’s Allowance (Transitional Provisions) Regulations 1995 shall, for the purposes of paragraph (1), be treated as a period in which he satisfies the conditions specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) and (e) to (i) of subsection (2) of section 1.]
(3) The following periods shall not be, or be part of, a jobseeking period–
(a)any period in respect of which no claim for a jobseeker’s allowance has been made or treated as made;
(b)such period as falls before the day on which a claim for a jobseeker’s allowance is made or treated as made F9...;
(c)where a claim for a jobseeker’s allowance has been made or treated as made but no entitlement to benefit arises in respect of a period before the date of claim by virtue of section 1(2) of the Administration Act (limits for backdating entitlement), that period;
(d)where–
(i)a claimant satisfies the conditions specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) and (e) to (i) of subsection (2) of section 1; and
(ii)entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance ceases in accordance with regulation 25 (entitlement ceasing on a failure to comply),
the period beginning with the date in respect of which, in accordance with regulation 26, entitlement ceases and ending with the day before the date in respect of which the claimant again becomes entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance; or
(e)any week in which a claimant is not entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance in accordance with section 14 (trade disputes).
[F10(f)subject to regulation 2A, any period in respect of which the claimant is not entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance because section 1(1A) of the Administration Act (requirement to state national insurance number) applies.]
(4) For the purposes of section 5 (duration of a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance) any day—
(a)which falls within a jobseeking period [F11and either];
[F12(b)(i)on which the claimant satisfies the conditions specified in section 2 (the contribution-based conditions) other than the conditions specified in subsection (1)(c) and (d) of that section; and
(ii)on which a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance is not payable to the claimant by virtue of [F13section 19 or 19A or regulation 69B] [F14or on which the claimant is a member of a joint-claim couple and a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance is not payable or is reduced because he is subject to sanctions by virtue of [F13section 19 or 19A or regulation 69B]] [F15or by virtue of a restriction imposed pursuant to F16... [F17section [F186B,] 7, 8 or 9 of the Social Security Fraud Act 2001] (loss of benefit provisions)]; or
(c)which falls within a period which is treated as a period in which the claimant satisfies the conditions specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection (2) of section 1, in accordance with paragraph (2),]
shall be treated as if it was a day in respect of which he was entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker's allowance.
Textual Amendments
F7Words in reg. 47(2)(b) added (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), Sch. 2 para. 11
F8Reg. 47(2A) inserted (28.10.1996) by The Social Security and Child Support (Jobseeker’s Allowance) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/2538), regs. 1, 2(4)
F9Words in reg. 47(3)(b) omitted (5.4.1999) by virtue of The Social Security Benefits (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1999 (S.I. 1999/714), reg. 2(1)(a)
F10Reg. 47(3)(f) inserted (6.9.1999) by The Social Security (Incapacity Benefit and Jobseeker’s Allowance) Amendment Regulations 1999 (S.I. 1999/2226), regs. 1, 3
F11Words in reg. 47(4) added (7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support (General) (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1517), regs. 1, 14(2)
F12Reg. 47(4)(b)(i)(ii)(c) substituted for reg. 47(4)(b)(c) (7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support (General) (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1517), regs. 1, 14(3)
F13Words in reg. 47(4)(b)(ii) substituted (22.10.2012) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2568), regs. 1(1), 5(8)
F14Words in reg. 47(4)(b)(ii) added (19.3.2001) by The Social Security Amendment (Joint Claims) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/518), regs. 1(1), 2(5)
F15Words in reg. 47(4)(b)(ii) added (E.W.) (15.10.2001) by The Social Security (Breach of Community Order) (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/1711), regs. 1, 2(4)(a)
F16Words in reg. 47(4)(b)(ii) omitted (for specified purposes and with effect in accordance with reg. 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Welfare Reform Act 2009 (Section 26) (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/424), reg. 3(2)
F17Words in reg. 47(4)(b)(ii) inserted (1.4.2002) by The Social Security (Loss of Benefit) (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2002 (S.I. 2002/490), regs. 1(1), 7
F18Word in reg. 47(4)(b)(ii) inserted (1.4.2010) by The Social Security (Loss of Benefit) Amendment Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/1160), regs. 1, 11(2)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C1Reg. 47(4)(b)(ii) modified (22.11.2010) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Work for Your Benefit Pilot Scheme) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/1222), regs. 1(2), 18(b)
47A.—[F20(1)] For the purposes of section 2(4)(b)(i) and for determining any waiting days—
[F21(za)where a linked period commenced before 7th October 1996F22..., any days of unemployment which form part of a period of interruption of employment where the last day of unemployment in that period of interruption of employment was no more than 8 weeks before the date upon which that linked period commenced;]
(a)where a jobseeking period or a linked period commences on 7th October 1996, any period of interruption of employment ending within the 8 weeks preceding the day the jobseeking period or linked period commenced,
(b)where a jobseeking period or a linked period commences after 7th October 1996, any period of interruption of employment ending within the 12 weeks preceding that date,
shall be treated as a jobseeking period [F23and, for the purposes of paragraph (za), a day shall be treated as being, or not being, a day of unemployment in accordance with section 25A of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 and with any regulations made under that section, as in force on 6th October 1996].]
[F24(2) In paragraph (1) “period of interruption of employment" in relation to a period prior to 7th October 1996 has the same meaning as it had in the Benefits Act by virtue of section 25A of that Act (determination of days for which unemployment benefit is payable) as in force on 6th October 1996.]
Textual Amendments
F19Reg. 47A inserted (28.10.1996) by The Social Security and Child Support (Jobseeker’s Allowance) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/2538), regs. 1, 2(5)
F20Reg. 47A(1): reg. 47A renumbered as reg. 47A(1) (6.4.1998) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1998 (S.I. 1998/563), regs. 1(1), 16(1)
F21Reg. 47A(za) inserted (1.12.1997) by The Jobseekers Allowance (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 1997 (S.I. 1997/2677), regs. 1, 2(a)
F22Words in reg. 47A(1)(za) omitted (6.4.1998) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1998 (S.I. 1998/563), regs. 1(1), 16(1)
F23Words in reg. 47A added (1.12.1997) by The Jobseekers Allowance (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 1997 (S.I. 1997/2677), regs. 1, 2(b)
F24Reg. 47A(2) added (6.4.1998) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1998 (S.I. 1998/563), regs. 1(1), 16(2)
48.—(1) For the purposes of the Act, two or more jobseeking periods shall be treated as one jobseeking period where they are separated by a period comprising only—
(a)any period of not more than 12 weeks;
(b)linked period;
(c)any period of not more than 12 weeks falling between–
(i)any two linked periods; or
(ii)a jobseeking period and a linked period;
[F25(d)a period in respect of which the claimant is summoned for jury service and is required to attend court.]
(2) Linked periods for the purposes of the Act are any of the following periods–
(a)to the extent specified in paragraph (3), any period throughout which the claimant is entitled to [F26a] [F26carer’s allowance] under section 70 of the Benefits Act;
(b)any period throughout which the claimant is incapable of work, or is treated as incapable of work, in accordance with Part XIIA of the Benefits Act F27;
[F28(bb)any period throughout which the claimant has, or is treated as having, limited capability for work for the purposes of Part 1 of the Welfare Reform Act;]
(c)any period throughout which the claimant was entitled to a maternity allowance under section 35 [F29or 35B] of the Benefits Act;
(d)any period throughout which the claimant was engaged in training for which a training allowance is payable.
[F30(e)a period which includes 6th October [F311996] during which the claimant attends court in response to a summons for jury service and which was immediately preceded by a period of entitlement to unemployment benefit.]
[F32(f)any period throughout which the claimant was participating—
(i)in the [F33Self-Employed] Employment Option of the New Deal as specified in regulation 75(1)(a)(ii)(aa);
[F34(ii)in the Voluntary Sector Option of the New Deal specified in regulation 75(1)(a)(ii)(bb), in the Environment Task Force Option of the New Deal specified in regulation 75(1)(a)(ii)(cc [F35or in the Intensive Activity Period specified in regulation 75(1)(a)(iv)] and was not entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance because, as a consequence of his participation, the claimant was engaged in remunerative work or failed to satisfy the condition specified either in section 2(1)(c) or in section 3(1)(a).]
[F36(g)any period throughout which the claimant was participating in an employment zone programme and was not entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance because, as a consequence of his participation in that programme, he was engaged in remunerative work or failed to satisfy the condition specified in section 2(1)(c) or in section 3(1)(a).]
[F37(2A) A period is a linked period for the purposes of section 2(4)(b)(ii) of the Act only where it ends within 12 weeks or less of the commencement of a jobseeking period or of some other linked period.]
(3) A period of entitlement to [F26carer’s allowance] shall be a linked period only where it enables the claimant to satisfy contribution conditions for entitlement to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance which he would otherwise be unable to satisfy.]
Textual Amendments
F25Reg. 48(1)(d) substituted (7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support (General) (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1517), regs. 1, 15
F26Words in reg. 48 substituted (1.4.2003) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003/511), regs. 1, 3(4)(5)
F27Part XIIA was inserted by the Social Security (Incapacity for Work) Act 1994 (c.18), section 5.
F28Reg. 48(2)(bb) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(7)
F29Words in reg. 48(2)(c) inserted (18.5.2014) by The Social Security (Maternity Allowance) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2014 (S.I. 2014/884), regs. 1, 4(4)
F30Reg. 48(2)(e) added (28.10.1996) by The Social Security and Child Support (Jobseeker’s Allowance) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/2538), regs. 1, 2(6)(a)
F31Word in reg. 48(2)(e) inserted (7.4.1997) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1997 (S.I. 1997/454), regs. 1(c), 2(4)
F32Reg. 48(2)(f) added (5.1.1998) by The Social Security Amendment (New Deal) Regulations 1997 (S.I. 1997/2863), regs. 1(1), 4
F33Words in reg. 48(2)(f)(i) inserted (14.10.2002) by The Social Security Amendment (Employment Programme) Regulations 2002 (S.I. 2002/2314), regs. 1, 2(3)
F34Reg. 48(2)(f)(ii) substituted (9.4.2001) by The Social Security Amendment (New Deal) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/1029), regs. 1(1), 3
F35Words in reg. 48(2)(f)(ii) substituted (14.4.2008) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/698), regs. 1(1), 4(7)
F36Reg. 48(2)(g) added (3.4.2000) by The Social Security Amendment (Employment Zones) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/724), regs. 1(1), 4(4)(a)
F37Reg. 48(2A) inserted (28.10.1996) by The Social Security and Child Support (Jobseeker’s Allowance) (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/2538), regs. 1, 2(6)(b)
49.—(1) [F38Subject to paragraph (5),] the provisions of this regulation apply only to days which fall–
(a)after 6th October 1996; and
(b)within a tax year in which the claimant has attained [F39the qualifying age for state pension credit] but is under pensionable age,
and in respect of which a jobseeker’s allowance is not payable because the decision of the determining authority is that the claimant—
(i)has exhausted his entitlement to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance; or (ii) fails to satisfy one or both the contribution conditions specified in section 2(1)(a) and (b); or
(iii)is entitled to a contribution-based jobseeker’s allowance but the amount payable is reduced to Nil by virtue of deductions made in accordance with regulation 81 for pension payments.
[F40(2) For the purposes of paragraph (1) of regulation 47 (jobseeking period) but subject to paragraphs [F41(3), (4) and (4A)], any days to which paragraph (1) applies and in respect of which the person does not satisfy or is not treated in accordance with regulation 14, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21 or 34 as satisfying the conditions specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection (2) of section 1 (conditions of entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance), shall be days on which the person is treated as satisfying the condition in paragraphs (a) to (c) and (e) to (i) of subsection (2) of section (1).]
(3) Where a person–
F42(a). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(b)is employed as an employed earner or a self-employed earner for a period of more than 12 weeks, then no day which falls within or follows that period shall be days on which the person is treated as satisfying those conditions so however that this paragraph shall not prevent paragraph (2) from again applying to a person who makes a claim for a jobseeker’s allowance after that period.
(4) Any day which is, for the purposes of section 30C of the Benefits Act F43, a day of incapacity for work falling within a period of incapacity for work shall not be a day on which the person is treated as satisfying the conditions referred to in paragraph (2).
[F44(4A) Any day which, for the purposes of Part 1 of the Welfare Reform Act, is a day where the person has limited capability for work falling within a period of limited capability for work shall not be a day on which the person is treated as satisfying the conditions referred to in paragraph (2).]
[F45(5) This regulation shall not apply in respect of any days in respect of which a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance has been claimed.]
Textual Amendments
F38Words in reg. 49(1) inserted (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 12(a)
F39Words in reg. 49(1)(b) substituted (6.4.2010) by The Social Security (Equalisation of State Pension Age) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/1488), regs. 1, 11(2)
F40Reg. 49(2) substituted (7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support (General) (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1517), regs. 1, 16(2)
F41Words in reg. 49(2) substituted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(8)(a)
F42Reg. 49(3)(a) omitted (7.10.1996) by virtue of The Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support (General) (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1517), regs. 1, 16(3)
F43 Section 30C was inserted by the Social Security (Incapacity for Work) Act 1994 (c.18), section 3.
F44Reg. 49(4A) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(8)(b)
F45Reg. 49(5) added (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), Sch. 2 para. 12(b)
50.—(1) For the purposes of the Act, a claimant shall be treated as being in Great Britain during any period of temporary absence from Great Britain—
(a)not exceeding 4 weeks in the circumstances specified in paragraphs (2), (3) and (4);
(b)not exceeding 8 weeks in the circumstances specified in paragraph (5).
(2) The circumstances specified in this paragraph are that–
(a)the claimant is in Northern Ireland and satisfies the conditions of entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance; and
(b)immediately preceding the period of absence from Great Britain the claimant was entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance; and
(c)the period of absence is unlikely to exceed 52 weeks.
(3) The circumstances specified in this paragraph are that–
(a)immediately preceding the period of absence from Great Britain the claimant was entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance; and
(b)the period of absence is unlikely to exceed 52 weeks; and
(c)while absent from Great Britain, the claimant continues to satisfy, or be treated as satisfying, the other conditions of entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance; and
(d)is one of a couple, both of whom are absent from Great Britain, where a premium referred to in paragraphs 10, 11, 12, 13 or 15 of Schedule 1 (applicable amounts) is applicable in respect of the claimant’s partner.
(4) The circumstances of this paragraph are that–
(a)while absent from Great Britain the person is in receipt of a training allowance; and
(b)regulation 170 (person in receipt of training allowance) applies in his case; and
(c)immediately preceding his absence from Great Britain, he was entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance.
(5) The circumstances specified in this paragraph are that–
(a)immediately preceding the period of absence from Great Britain, the claimant was entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance; and
(b)the period of absence is unlikely to exceed 52 weeks; and
(c)the claimant continues to satisfy or be treated as satisfying the other conditions of entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance; and
(d)the claimant is, or the claimant and any other member of his family are, accompanying a member of the claimant’s family who is a child or young person solely in connection with arrangements made for the treatment of that child or young person for a disease or bodily or mental disablement; and
(e)those arrangements relate to treatment–
(i)outside Great Britain;
(ii)during the period whilst the claimant is, or the claimant and any member of his family are, temporarily absent from Great Britain; and
(iii)by, or under the supervision of, a person appropriately qualified to carry out that treatment.
(6) A person shall also be treated, for the purposes of the Act, as being in Great Britain during any period of temporary absence from Great Britain where—
(a)the absence is for the purpose of attending an interview for employment; and
(b)the absence is for 7 consecutive days or less; and
(c)notice of the proposed absence is given to the employment officer before departure, and is given in writing if so required by the officer; and
(d)on his return to Great Britain the person satisfies the employment officer that he attended for the interview in accordance with his notice.
[F46(6AA) For the purposes of the Act a claimant shall be treated as being in Great Britain during any period of temporary absence from Great Britain if—
(a)he was entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance immediately before the beginning of that period of temporary absence; and]
[F47(b)that period of temporary absence is for the purpose of the claimant receiving treatment at a hospital or other institution outside Great Britain where the treatment is being provided—
(i)under section 6(2) of the Health Service Act (performance of functions outside England) or section 6(2) of the Health Service (Wales) Act (performance of functions outside Wales);
(ii)pursuant to arrangements made under section 12(1) of the Health Service Act (Secretary of State’s arrangements with other bodies), section 10(1) of the Health Service (Wales) Act (Welsh Minister’s arrangements with other bodies), paragraph 18 of Schedule 4 to the Health Service Act (joint exercise of functions) or paragraph 18 of Schedule 3 to the Health Service (Wales) Act (joint exercise of functions); or
(iii)under any equivalent provision in Scotland or pursuant to arrangements made under such provision.]
[F48(6A) A member of a joint-claim couple shall be treated, for the purposes of the Act, as being in Great Britain where he is a member of a transitional case couple as defined for the purposes of paragraph 8A(2) of Schedule 1 to the Act and, as at the date on which Schedule 7 to the Welfare Reform and Pensions Act 1999 comes into force—
(a)he is temporarily absent from Great Britain; or
(b)he has made definite arrangements to be temporarily absent from Great Britain from some future date,
and that member shall be so treated during any such period of temporary absence from Great Britain.
(6B) A member of a joint-claim couple shall be treated, for the purposes of the Act, as being in Great Britain during any period of temporary absence from Great Britain—
(a)not exceeding 4 weeks where he is in Northern Ireland and the period of absence is unlikely to exceed 52 weeks;
(b)not exceeding 4 weeks where he is in receipt of a training allowance during the period of absence and regulation 170 applies in his case; or
(c)not exceeding 7 days where the absence is for the purpose of attending an interview for employment,
where that member is so temporarily absent as at the date of claim by the other member of that couple.]
[F49(6C) For the purposes of the Act a member of a joint-claim couple (“the first member”) shall be treated as being in Great Britain during any period of temporary absence if—
(a)he and the other member of that couple were entitled to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance immediately before the beginning of that period of temporary absence; and]
[F50(b)that period of temporary absence is for the purpose of the claimant receiving treatment at a hospital or other institution outside Great Britain where the treatment is being provided—
(i)under section 6(2) of the Health Service Act (performance of functions outside England) or section 6(2) of the Health Service (Wales) Act (performance of functions outside Wales);
(ii)pursuant to arrangements made under section 12(1) of the Health Service Act (Secretary of State’s arrangements with other bodies), section 10(1) of the Health Service (Wales) Act (Welsh Minister’s arrangements with other bodies), paragraph 18 of Schedule 4 to the Health Service Act (joint exercise of functions) or paragraph 18 of Schedule 3 to the Health Service (Wales) Act (joint exercise of functions); or
(iii)under any equivalent provision in Scotland or pursuant to arrangements made under such provision.]
[F51(6D) For the purposes of the Act, a person (“P”) shall be treated as being in Great Britain during any period of temporary absence from Great Britain not exceeding 15 days where—
(a)P’s absence is for the purpose of taking part in annual continuous training as a member of any F52... reserve force prescribed in Part 1 of Schedule 6 to the Contributions Regulations; and
(b)P or P’s partner was entitled to a jobseeker’s allowance immediately before the period of absence began.]
(7) In this regulation–
“appropriately qualified" means qualified to provide medical treatment, physiotherapy or a form of treatment which is similar to, or related to, either of those forms of treatment;
“employment officer" means a person who is an employment officer for the purposes of sections 9 and 10.
Textual Amendments
F46Reg. 50(6AA) inserted (4.10.2004) by The Social Security (Income Support and Jobseeker’s Allowance) Amendment Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/1869), regs. 1, 3(4)(a)
F47Reg. 50(6AA)(b) substituted (17.11.2008) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No.6) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/2767), regs. 1(2), 4(3)
F48Reg. 50(6A)(6B) inserted (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 13
F49Reg. 50(6C) inserted (4.10.2004) by The Social Security (Income Support and Jobseeker’s Allowance) Amendment Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/1869), regs. 1, 3(4)(b)
F50Reg. 50(6C)(b) substituted (17.11.2008) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No.6) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/2767), regs. 1(2), 4(3)
F51Reg. 50(6D) inserted (5.11.2012) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 2) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2575), regs. 1(2), 3(2)
F52Words in reg. 50(6D)(a) omitted (6.4.2015) by virtue of The Social Security (Members of the Reserve Forces) (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/389), regs. 1, 3(7)(b)
51.—(1) For the purposes of the Act “remunerative work" means–
(a)in the case of [F53a claimant], work in which he is engaged or, where his hours of work fluctuate, is engaged on average, for not less than 16 hours per week; and
(b)in the case of any partner of the claimant, work in which he is engaged or, where his hours of work fluctuate, is engaged on average, for not less than 24 hours per week [F54and;
(c)in the case of a non-dependant, or of a child or young person to whom paragraph 18 of Schedule 6 refers, work in which he is engaged or, where his hours of work fluctuate, is engaged on average, for not less than 16 hours per week,]
and for those purposes, [F55“work” is work] for which payment is made or which is done in expectation of payment.
(2) For the purposes of paragraph (1), the number of hours in which [F56a claimant] or his partner is engaged in work shall be determined—
(a)where no recognisable cycle has been established in respect of a person’s work, by reference to the number of hours or, where those hours are likely to fluctuate, the average of the hours, which he is expected to work in a week;
(b)where the number of hours for which he is engaged fluctuate, by reference to the average of hours worked over—
(i)if there is a recognisable cycle of work, and sub-paragraph (c) does not apply, the period of one complete cycle (including, where the cycle involves periods in which the person does not work, those periods but disregarding any other absences);
(ii)in any other case, the period of five weeks immediately before the date of claim or the date of [F57suppression], or such other length of time as may, in the particular case, enable the person’s average hours of work to be determined more accurately;
F58(c). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(3) In determining in accordance with this regulation the number of hours for which a person is engaged in remunerative work—
(a)that number shall include any time allowed to that person by his employer for a meal or for refreshments, but only where the person is, or expects to be, paid earnings in respect of that time;
(b)no account shall be taken of any hours in which the person is engaged in an employment or scheme to which any one of paragraphs (a) to (h) of regulation 53 (person treated as not engaged in remunerative work) applies;
(c)no account shall be taken of any hours in which the person is engaged otherwise than in an employment as an earner in caring for—
(i)a person who is in receipt of attendance allowance F59... [F60, the care component of disability living allowance at the highest or middle rate or the daily living component of personal independence payment at the standard or enhanced rate][F61, armed forces independence payment]; or
(ii)a person who has claimed an attendance allowance F62... [F63, disability living allowance[F64, armed forces independence payment] or personal independence payment], but only for the period beginning with the date of claim and ending on the date the claim is determined or, if earlier, on the expiration of the period of 26 weeks from the date of claim; or
(iii)another person [F65and] is in receipt of [F66a] [F66carer’s allowance] under Section 70 of the [F67Benefits Act or;
(iv)a person who has claimed either attendance allowance or disability living allowance and has an award of attendance allowance or the care component of disability living allowance at one of the two higher rates prescribed under section 72(4) of the Benefits Act for a period commencing after the date on which that claim was made[F68; or
(v)a person who has claimed personal independence payment and has an award of the daily living component at the standard or enhanced rate under section 78 of the 2012 Act for a period commencing after the date on which that claim was made[F69; or
(vi)a person who has claimed and has an award of armed forces independence payment for a period commencing after the date on which that claim was made.]]]
F70(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F71(5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F53Words in reg. 51(1)(a) substituted (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 14
F54Reg. 51(1)(c) and word added (7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1516), regs. 1(1), 9(2)
F55Words in reg. 51(1) substituted (7.4.1997) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1997 (S.I. 1997/454), regs. 1(c), 2(5)
F56Words in reg. 51(2) substituted (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 14
F57Words in reg. 51(2)(b)(ii) substituted (18.10.1999) by The Social Security Act 1998 (Commencement No. 11, and Savings and Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Order 1999 (S.I. 1999/2860), art. 3(1), Sch. 12 para. 5
F58Reg. 51(2)(c) omitted (6.4.2009) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/583), regs. 1(2), 4(4)
F59Words in reg. 51(3)(c)(i) omitted (7.10.1996) by virtue of The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1516), regs. 1(1), 9(3)
F60Words in reg. 51(3)(c)(i) substituted (8.4.2013) by The Personal Independence Payment (Supplementary Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/388), reg. 2, Sch. para. 16(3)(a)
F61Words in reg. 51(3)(c)(i) inserted (8.4.2013) by The Armed Forces and Reserve Forces Compensation Scheme (Consequential Provisions: Subordinate Legislation) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/591), art. 2(2), Sch. para. 10(3)(a)
F62Words in reg. 51(3)(c)(ii) omitted (7.10.1996) by virtue of The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1516), regs. 1(1), 9(3)
F63Words in reg. 51(3)(c)(ii) substituted (8.4.2013) by The Personal Independence Payment (Supplementary Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/388), reg. 2, Sch. para. 16(3)(b)
F64Words in reg. 51(3)(c)(ii) inserted (8.4.2013) by The Armed Forces and Reserve Forces Compensation Scheme (Consequential Provisions: Subordinate Legislation) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/591), art. 2(2), Sch. para. 10(3)(b)
F65Word in reg. 51(3)(c)(iii) inserted (7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1516), reg. 1(1), Sch. Pt. 2
F66Words in reg. 51 substituted (1.4.2003) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003/511), regs. 1, 3(4)(5)
F67Reg. 51(3)(c)(iv) substituted for words in reg. 51(3)(c)(iii)(7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1516), regs. 1(1), 9(4)
F68Reg. 51(3)(c)(v) and word inserted (8.4.2013) by The Personal Independence Payment (Supplementary Provisions and Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/388), reg. 2, Sch. para. 16(3)(c)
F69Reg. 51(3)(c)(vi) and word inserted (8.4.2013) by The Armed Forces and Reserve Forces Compensation Scheme (Consequential Provisions: Subordinate Legislation) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/591), art. 2(2), Sch. para. 10(3)(c)
F70Reg. 51(4) omitted (31.10.2011) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 3) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/2425), regs. 1(2), 10(3)
F71Reg. 51(5) omitted (31.10.2011) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 3) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/2425), regs. 1(2), 10(3)
52.—(1) Except in the case of a person on maternity leave[F72, paternity leave, adoption leave][F73, shared parental leave] [F74, parental bereavement leave] or absent from work through illness, a person shall be treated as engaged in remunerative work during any period for which he is absent from work referred to in regulation 51(1) (remunerative work) where the absence is either without [F75a good reason] or by reason of a recognised, customary or other holiday.
(2) For the purposes of an income-based jobseeker’s allowance [F76but not a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance], the partner of a claimant shall be treated as engaged in remunerative work where—
(a)the partner is or was involved in a trade dispute; and
(b)had the partner claimed a jobseeker’s allowance, section 14 (trade disputes) would have applied in his case; and
(c)the claimant was not entitled to an income-based jobseeker’s allowance when the partner became involved in the trade dispute;
and shall be so treated for a period of 7 days beginning on the date the stoppage of work at the partner’s place of employment commenced, or if there was no stoppage of work, the date on which the partner first withdrew his labour in furtherance of the trade dispute.
[F77(2A) For the purposes of a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance, a member of a joint-claim couple shall be treated as engaged in remunerative work where—
(a)he is or was involved in a trade dispute;
(b)had the joint-claim couple of which he is a member claimed a jobseeker’s allowance jointly, section 14 (trade disputes) would have applied in the case of one or both members of that couple; and
(c)the joint-claim couple were not entitled to a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowance when that member of the joint-claim couple became involved in the trade dispute,
and shall be so treated for a period of 7 days beginning on the date the stoppage of work commenced at that member’s place of employment or, if there was no stoppage of work, the date on which that member first withdrew his labour in furtherance of the trade dispute.]
(3) [F78Subject to paragraph (3A), a person] who was, or was treated as being, engaged in remunerative work and in respect of that work earnings to which [F7998(1)(c)] (earnings of employed earners) applies are paid, shall be treated as engaged in remunerative work for the period for which those earnings are taken into account in accordance with Part VIII.
[F80(3A) Paragraph (3) shall not apply to earnings disregarded under paragraph 1 of Schedule 6 to these regulations.]
F81(4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F81(5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F81(6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F72Words in reg. 52(1) inserted (8.12.2002) by The Social Security (Paternity and Adoption) Amendment Regulations 2002 (S.I. 2002/2689), regs. 1(1)(b), 3(4)
F73Words in reg. 52(1) inserted (31.12.2014) by The Shared Parental Leave and Statutory Shared Parental Pay (Consequential Amendments to Subordinate Legislation) Order 2014 (S.I. 2014/3255), arts. 1(2), 7(4)
F74Words in reg. 52(1) inserted (6.4.2020) by The Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay (Consequential Amendments to Subordinate Legislation) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/354), regs. 1, 8(4)
F75Words in reg. 52(1) substituted (22.10.2012) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2568), regs. 1(1), 5(9)
F76Words in reg. 52(2) inserted (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 15(a)
F77Reg. 52(2A) inserted (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 15(b)
F78Words in reg. 52(3) substituted (1.10.2007) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 5) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/2618), regs. 1(1), 8(4)(a)
F79Word in reg. 52(3) substituted (14.4.2008) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/698), regs. 1(1), 4(8)
F80Reg. 52(3A) inserted (1.10.2007) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 5) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/2618), regs. 1(1), 8(4)(b)
F81Reg. 52(4)-(6) omitted (9.4.2001) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/488), regs. 1(1), 12(a)
53. A person shall be treated as not engaged in remunerative work in so far as—
(a)he is engaged by a charity or a voluntary organisation or is a volunteer where the only payment received by him or due to be paid to him is a payment which is to be disregarded under regulation 103(2) and paragraph 2 of Schedule 7 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings) [F82and in this paragraph “volunteer” means a person who is engaged in voluntary work, otherwise than for a relative, where the only payment received, or due to be paid to the person by virtue of being so engaged, is in respect of any expenses reasonably incurred by the person in connection with that work];
(b)he is engaged on a scheme for which a training allowance is being paid;
[F83(bb)he is receiving assistance [F84under the self-employment route];]
(i)is in employment;
(ii)lives in, or is temporarily absent from a care home, an Abbeyfield Home or an independent hospital; and
(iii)requires personal care by reason of old age, disablement, past or present dependence on alcohol or drugs, past or present mental disorder or a terminal illness.]]
(d)he is engaged in employment as–
F87(i). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F88(ia). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F89(ib). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
[F90(i)a part-time fire-fighter employed by a fire and rescue authority under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 or by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service established under section 1A of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005;]
(ii)an auxiliary coastguard in respect of coastal rescue activities;
(iii)a person engaged part-time in the manning or launching of a lifeboat;
(iv)a member of any F91... reserve force prescribed in Part I of [F92Schedule 6 to the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001];
(e)he is performing his duties as a councillor, and for this purpose “councillor" has the same meaning as in section 171F(2) of the Benefits ActF93;
(f)he is engaged in caring for a person who is accommodated with him by virtue of arrangements made under any of the provisions referred to in paragraph 27 or 28 of Schedule 7 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), and is in receipt of any payment specified in that paragraph;
[F94(fa)he is engaged in caring for a person who is provided with continuing care by a local authority by virtue of arrangements made under section 26A of the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 and is in receipt of a payment made under that section of that Act;]
(g)he is–
(i)the partner of the claimant; and
(ii)involved in a trade dispute; and (iii) not a person to whom regulation 52(2) applies,
and had he claimed a jobseeker’s allowance, section 14 (trade disputes) would have applied in his case;
[F95(gg)he is—
(i)a member of a joint-claim couple; and
(ii)involved in a trade dispute; and
(iii)not a person to whom regulation 52(2A) applies,
and had the joint-claim couple of which he is a member claimed a jobseeker’s allowance jointly, section 14 (trade disputes) would have applied in the case of one or both members of that couple;]
[F96(h)he is mentally or physically disabled, and by reason of that disability—
(i)his earnings are reduced to 75 per cent. or less of what a person without that disability and working the same number of hours would reasonably be expected to earn in that employment or in comparable employment in the area; or
(ii)his number of hours [F97of] work are 75 per cent. or less of what a person without that disability would reasonably be expected to undertake in that employment or in comparable employment in the area.]
[F98(i)he is engaged in an activity in respect of which—
(i)a sports award had been made, or is to be made, to him; and
(ii)no other payment is made or is expected to be made to him.]
[F99(k)he is engaged in the programme known as Work Experience.]
[F100(l)he is participating in the Mandatory Work Activity Scheme.]
F101(m). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
[F102(m)he is participating in a scheme prescribed in regulation 3 of the Jobseeker's Allowance (Schemes for Assisting Persons to Obtain Employment) Regulations 2013.]
Textual Amendments
F82Words in reg. 53(a) inserted (6.4.2010) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 2) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/641), regs. 1(1), 4(5)
F83Reg. 53(bb) inserted (27.11.2000) by The Social Security Amendment (Employment Zones) (No. 2) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/2910), reg. 3
F84Words in reg. 53(bb) substituted (4.5.2004) by The Social Security (Income-Related Benefits Self-Employment Route Amendment) Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/963), regs. 1(1), 4
F85Reg. 53(c) substituted (24.10.2005) by The Social Security (Care Homes and Independent Hospitals) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/2687), reg. 1, Sch. 2 para. 2
F86Reg. 53(c) revoked in part (25.1.2010) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 5) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/3228), regs. 1(2), 4(1)(b)(i) (with reg. 4(3)(5))
F87Reg. 53(d)(i) omitted (E.W.) (29.10.2013) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 3) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/2536), regs. 1(1), 6(5)(a); revoked (S.) (2.8.2005) by The Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 (Consequential Provisions and Modifications) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/2060), art. 1(2)(f), Sch. para. 10(3)(a)
F88Reg. 53(d)(ia) omitted (E.W.) (29.10.2013) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 3) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/2536), regs. 1(1), 6(5)(b)
F89Reg. 53(d)(ib) omitted (S.) (29.10.2013) by virtue of The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 3) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/2536), regs. 1(1), 6(5)(c)
F90Reg. 53(d)(i) inserted (29.10.2013) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 3) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/2536), regs. 1(1), 6(5)(d)
F91Words in reg. 53(d)(iv) omitted (6.4.2015) by virtue of The Social Security (Members of the Reserve Forces) (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/389), regs. 1, 3(7)(c)
F92Words in reg. 53(d)(iv) substituted (2.10.2006) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/2378), regs. 1(3), 13(3)(b)
F93Section 171F was inserted by the Social Security (Incapacity for Work) Act 1994 (c.18), section 6(1).
F94Reg. 53(fa) inserted (7.11.2017) by The Social Security and Child Support (Care Payments and Tenant Incentive Scheme) (Amendment) Regulations 2017 (S.I. 2017/995), regs. 1, 11(2)
F95Reg. 53(gg) inserted (19.3.2001) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Joint Claims) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1978), reg. 1(1), Sch. 2 para. 16
F96Reg. 53(h) revoked in part (25.1.2010) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 5) Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/3228), regs. 1(2), 4(1)(b)(i) (with reg. 4(3)(5))
F97Word in reg. 53(h)(ii) inserted (7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1516), reg. 1(1), Sch. Pt. 2
F98Reg. 53(i) added (23.8.1999) by The Social Security Amendment (Sports Awards) Regulations 1999 (S.I. 1999/2165), regs. 1(1), 7(2)
F99Reg. 53(k) inserted (5.4.2011) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Work Experience) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/789), regs. 1, 2(4)
F100Words in reg. 53(l) inserted (25.4.2011) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Mandatory Work Activity Scheme) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/688), regs. 1, 16(c)
F101Reg. 53(m) omitted (12.2.2013) by virtue of Jobseekers (Back to Work Schemes) Act 2013 (c. 17), ss. 1(14), 3(2) (with s. 1(10))
F102Reg. 53(m) inserted (12.2.2013 at 6.45pm) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Schemes for Assisting Persons to Obtain Employment) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/276), regs. 1, 14(c)
54.—(1) Only full-time education which is undertaken by a child or young person and which is not a course of advanced education shall be treated as relevant education for the purposes of the Act.
[F103(2) A child or young person shall be treated as receiving full-time education where he is a qualifying young person or child within the meaning of section 142 of the Benefits Act (child and qualifying young person).]
(3) A young person who–
(a)is a part-time student; and
(b)before he became a part-time student fulfilled the requirements specified for a person falling within paragraph (2) of regulation 11 (part-time students); and
(c)is undertaking a course of study, other than a course of advanced education or a course of study of a kind specified in head (i), (ii) or (iii) of the definition of “full-time student" in regulation 1(3),
shall not be treated as receiving relevant education.
(4) A young person to whom paragraph (3) applied and who has completed or terminated his course of part-time study shall not be treated as receiving relevant education.
[F104(4A) A young person who is participating in a traineeship shall not be treated as receiving relevant education;.]
F105(5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F103Reg. 54(2) substituted (10.4.2006) by The Social Security (Young Persons) Amendment Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/718), regs. 1(2)(a), 3(4)
F104Reg. 54(4A) inserted (27.3.2015) by The Social Security (Traineeships and Qualifying Young Persons) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/336), regs. 1, 2(6)(a)
F105Reg. 54(5) omitted (27.3.2015) by virtue of The Social Security (Traineeships and Qualifying Young Persons) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/336), regs. 1, 2(6)(b)
55.—(1) Subject to the following provisions of this regulation, a person who–
(a)[F106has been awarded a jobseeker’s allowance]F107...; and
(b)proves to the satisfaction of [F108the Secretary of State] that he is unable to work on account of some specific disease or disablement; and
(c)[F109during the period of his disease or disablement, satisfies] the requirements for entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance other than those specified in section 1(2)(a), (c) and (f) (available for and actively seeking employment, and capable of work [F110or not having limited capability for work]),
shall be treated for a period of not more than 2 weeks as capable of work [F111or as not having limited capability for work], except where the claimant states in writing that for the period of his disease or disablement he proposes to claim or has claimed incapacity benefit[F112, employment and support allowance, [F113universal credit,]] severe disablement allowance or income support.
(2) The evidence which is required for the purposes of paragraph (1)(b) is a declaration made by the claimant in writing, in a form approved for the purposes by the Secretary of State, that he has been unfit for work from a date or for a period specified in the declaration.
(3) [F114Paragraph (1) does] not apply to a claimant on more than two occasions in any one jobseeking period or where a jobseeking period exceeds 12 months, in each successive 12 months within that period and for the purposes of calculating any period of 12 months, the first 12 months in the jobseeking period commences on the first day of the jobseeking period.
[F115(4) [F116Paragraph (1) does] not apply to any person where the first day in respect of which they are unable to work falls within eight weeks beginning with the day the person ceased to be entitled to statutory sick pay.]
[F117(5) [F118Paragraph (1) does] not apply to a claimant who is temporarily absent from Great Britain in the circumstances prescribed by regulation 50(6AA) or, as the case may be, (6C).]
[F119(6) Paragraph (1) does not apply to any person—
(a)during any period where the person is treated as capable of work or as not having limited capability for work under regulation 55ZA (extended period of sickness); or
(b)where the first day in respect of which that person would, apart from this sub-paragraph, have been treated as capable of work or as not having limited capability for work under this regulation falls immediately after the last day on which the person is so treated under regulation 55ZA.]
[F120(7) For the purposes of calculating the number of occasions under paragraph (3), any occasion to which regulation 55ZA applies to the claimant is to be disregarded.]
Textual Amendments
F106Words in reg. 55(1)(a) substituted (7.10.1996) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support (General) (Amendment) Regulations 1996 (S.I. 1996/1517), regs. 1, 17(2)
F107Words in reg. 55(1)(a) omitted (22.10.2012) by virtue of The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2568), regs. 1(1), 5(10)
F108Words in reg. 55(1)(b) substituted (18.10.1999) by The Social Security Act 1998 (Commencement No. 11, and Savings and Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Order 1999 (S.I. 1999/2860), art. 3(1), Sch. 12 para. 2
F109Words in reg. 55(1)(c) substituted (30.3.2015) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/339), regs. 1, 2(4)(a)(i)
F110Words in reg. 55(1)(c) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(9)(a)(i)
F111Words in reg. 55(1) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(9)(a)(ii)
F112Words in reg. 55(1) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(9)(a)(iii)
F113Words in reg. 55(1) inserted (30.3.2015) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/339), regs. 1, 2(4)(a)(ii)
F114Words in reg. 55(3) substituted (30.3.2015) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/339), regs. 1, 2(4)(b)
F115Reg. 55(4) substituted (29.10.2013) by The Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 3) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/2536), regs. 1(1), 6(6)
F116Words in reg. 55(4) substituted (30.3.2015) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/339), regs. 1, 2(4)(c)
F117Reg. 55(5) added (4.10.2004) by The Social Security (Income Support and Jobseeker’s Allowance) Amendment Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/1869), regs. 1, 3(5)
F118Words in reg. 55(5) substituted (30.3.2015) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/339), regs. 1, 2(4)(d)
F119Reg. 55(6) inserted (30.3.2015) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/339), regs. 1, 2(4)(e)
F120Reg. 55(7) inserted (23.5.2016) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(2)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C2Reg. 55(1)(a) modified (22.11.2010) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Work for Your Benefit Pilot Scheme) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/1222), regs. 1(2), 18(c)
C3Reg. 55(3) modified (temp.) (30.3.2020) by The Social Security (Coronavirus) (Further Measures) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/371), regs. 1(1), 8(1)(2)(a) (with reg. 10(2))
55ZA.—(1) This regulation applies to a person who—
(a)has been awarded a jobseeker’s allowance;
(b)proves to the satisfaction of the Secretary of State that he is unable to work on account of some specific disease or disablement [F122(“the initial condition”)];
(c)either—
(i)declares that he has been unable to work, or [F123expects] to be unable to work, on account of [F124the initial condition or any other disease or disablement] for more than 2 weeks but [F125not] more than 13 weeks; or
(ii)is not a person to whom regulation 55(1) (short periods of sickness) applies by virtue of paragraph (3) of that regulation [F126, and declares that he has been unable to work or expects to be unable to work, on account of the initial condition or any other disease or disablement, for 2 weeks or less];
(d)during the period of his disease or disablement, satisfies the requirements for entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance other than those specified in section 1(2)(a), (c) and (f) (availability for and actively seeking employment and capable of work or not having limited capability for work); and
(e)has not stated in writing that for the period of his disease or disablement he proposes to claim or has claimed an employment and support allowance or universal credit.
(2) The evidence which is required for the purposes of paragraph (1)(b) in a case where paragraph (1)(c)(i) applies is—
(a)evidence of incapacity for work or limited capability for work in accordance with the Social Security (Medical Evidence) Regulations 1976 (which prescribe the form of a doctor’s statement or other evidence required in each case); and
(b)any such additional information as the Secretary of State may request.
(3) [F127Subject to paragraph (3A),] the evidence which is required for the purposes of paragraph (1)(b) in a case where paragraph (1)(c)(ii) applies is a declaration made by the person in writing, in a form approved for the purposes by the Secretary of State, that the person has been unfit for work from a date or for a period specified in the declaration.
[F128(3A) In a case where paragraph (1)(c)(ii) applies, but the period in which the person has been unable to work or expects to be unable to work in fact exceeds 2 weeks, the evidence that is required for the purposes of paragraph (1)(b) is the evidence that is required in a case where paragraph (1)(c)(i) applies.]
(4) Subject to the following paragraphs, a person to whom this regulation applies is to be treated as capable of work or as not having limited capability for work for the continuous period beginning on the first day on which he is unable to work on account of F129... disease or disablement (“the first day”) and ending on—
(a)the last such day; or
(b)if that period would otherwise exceed 13 weeks, the day which is 13 weeks after the first day.
(5) This regulation does not apply to a person on more than one occasion in any one period of 12 months starting on the first day applying for the purpose of paragraph (4).
(6) Paragraphs (4) and (5) of regulation 55 apply for the purposes of this regulation as they apply for the purposes of paragraph (1) of regulation 55.]
Textual Amendments
F121Reg. 55ZA inserted (30.3.2015) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/339), regs. 1, 2(5)
F122Words in reg. 55ZA(1)(b) inserted (23.5.2016) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(3)(a)(i)
F123Word in reg. 55ZA(1)(c)(i) substituted (23.5.2016) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(3)(a)(ii)(aa)
F124Words in reg. 55ZA(1)(c)(i) substituted (23.5.2016) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(3)(a)(ii)(bb)
F125Words in reg. 55ZA(1)(c)(i) substituted (23.5.2016) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(3)(a)(ii)(cc)
F126Words in reg. 55ZA(1)(c)(ii) inserted (23.5.2016) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(3)(a)(iii)
F127Words in reg. 55ZA(3) inserted (23.5.2016) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(3)(b)
F128Reg. 55ZA(3A) inserted (23.5.2016) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(3)(c)
F129Word in reg. 55ZA(4) omitted (23.5.2016) by virtue of The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Extended Period of Sickness) Amendment Regulations 2016 (S.I. 2016/502), regs. 1, 2(3)(d)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C4Reg. 55ZA(5) modified (temp.) (30.3.2020) by The Social Security (Coronavirus) (Further Measures) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/371), regs. 1(1), 8(1)(2)(a) (with reg. 10(2))
55A.—(1) A person—
(a)who has been awarded a jobseeker’s allowance, a joint-claim jobseeker’s allowanceF131...; and
(b)who is temporarily absent from Great Britain in the circumstances prescribed by regulation 50(6AA) or, as the case may be, (6C); and
(c)who proves to the satisfaction of the Secretary of State that he is unable to work on account of some specific disease or disablement; and
(d)but for his disease or disablement, would satisfy the requirements for entitlement to a jobseeker’s allowance other than those specified in section 1(2)(a), (c) and (f) (available for and actively seeking employment and capable of work [F132or not having limited capability for work]),
shall be treated during that period of temporary absence abroad as capable of work [F133or as not having limited capability for work], except where that person has stated in writing before that period of temporary absence abroad begins that immediately before the beginning of the period of that temporary absence abroad he has claimed F134...[F135, employment and support allowance]F134....
(2) The evidence which is required for the purposes of paragraph (1)(c) is a declaration made by that person in writing, in a form approved for the purposes by the Secretary of State, that he will be unfit for work from a date or for a period specified in the declaration.]
Textual Amendments
F130Reg. 55A inserted (4.10.2004) by The Social Security (Income Support and Jobseeker’s Allowance) Amendment Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/1869), regs. 1, 3(6)
F131Words in reg. 55A(1)(a) omitted (22.10.2012) by virtue of The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Sanctions) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2568), regs. 1(1), 5(11)
F132Words in reg. 55A(1)(d) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(10)(a)
F133Words in reg. 55A(1) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(10)(b)
F134Words in reg. 55A(1) omitted (31.1.2011) by SI 2010/1907 Sch. 4 para. 1A(2) (as inserted by The Employment and Support Allowance (Transitional Provisions, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit) (Existing Awards) (No. 2) (Amendment) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/2430), regs. 1(3), 19(2))
F135Words in reg. 55A(1) inserted (27.10.2008) by The Employment and Support Allowance (Consequential Provisions) (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 2008/1554), regs. 1(2)(b), 3(10)(c)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C5Reg. 55A(1)(a) modified (22.11.2010) by The Jobseeker’s Allowance (Work for Your Benefit Pilot Scheme) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 2010/1222), regs. 1(2), 18(d)
56.—(1) The prescribed amount of earnings for the purposes of section 2(1)(c) (the contribution-based conditions) shall be calculated by applying the formula—
where—A is the age-related amount applicable to the claimant in accordance with section 4(2); and
D is any amount disregarded from the claimant’s earnings in accordance with regulation 99(2) (calculation of net earnings of employed earners) or regulation 101(2) (calculation of net profit of self-employed earners) and Schedule 6.
(2) For the avoidance of doubt in calculating the amount of earnings in accordance with paragraph (1), only the claimant’s earnings shall be taken into account.
The Whole Instrument you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download. You may also experience some issues with your browser, such as an alert box that a script is taking a long time to run.
Would you like to continue?
The Whole Instrument you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download.
Would you like to continue?
The Whole Instrument without Schedules you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download. You may also experience some issues with your browser, such as an alert box that a script is taking a long time to run.
Would you like to continue?
The Whole Instrument without Schedules you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download.
Would you like to continue?
The Whole Instrument you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download. You may also experience some issues with your browser, such as an alert box that a script is taking a long time to run.
Would you like to continue?
The Whole Instrument without Schedules you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download. You may also experience some issues with your browser, such as an alert box that a script is taking a long time to run.
Would you like to continue?
The Schedules you have selected contains over 200 provisions and might take some time to download. You may also experience some issues with your browser, such as an alert box that a script is taking a long time to run.
Would you like to continue?
Latest Available (revised):The latest available updated version of the legislation incorporating changes made by subsequent legislation and applied by our editorial team. Changes we have not yet applied to the text, can be found in the ‘Changes to Legislation’ area.
Original (As Enacted or Made): The original version of the legislation as it stood when it was enacted or made. No changes have been applied to the text.
Point in Time: This becomes available after navigating to view revised legislation as it stood at a certain point in time via Advanced Features > Show Timeline of Changes or via a point in time advanced search.
Geographical Extent: Indicates the geographical area that this provision applies to. For further information see ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.
Show Timeline of Changes: See how this legislation has or could change over time. Turning this feature on will show extra navigation options to go to these specific points in time. Return to the latest available version by using the controls above in the What Version box.
Access essential accompanying documents and information for this legislation item from this tab. Dependent on the legislation item being viewed this may include:
This timeline shows the different points in time where a change occurred. The dates will coincide with the earliest date on which the change (e.g an insertion, a repeal or a substitution) that was applied came into force. The first date in the timeline will usually be the earliest date when the provision came into force. In some cases the first date is 01/02/1991 (or for Northern Ireland legislation 01/01/2006). This date is our basedate. No versions before this date are available. For further information see the Editorial Practice Guide and Glossary under Help.
Use this menu to access essential accompanying documents and information for this legislation item. Dependent on the legislation item being viewed this may include:
Click 'View More' or select 'More Resources' tab for additional information including: