Being Means Tested

[march]

Hi

I was self employed up until last July and signed on for Job Seekers Benefit when my company went into liquidation. SW have made such a mess of my application, I am only being means tested in the next few weeks.

Has anyone any experience of this as a former self employed person.

Any advice appreciated.

 

[milic]

Jobseekers Benefit is not a means tested payment. It is paid on the basis of relevant PRSI payments and if you have enough relevant PRSI payments and are unemployed you should be entitled regardless of your means or financial circumstances.
If you have been self employed you may not have relevant PRSI and must apply for Jobseekers Allowance which is means tested. Self employed persons are assessed on the basis of their self employment income in the past year unless Social Welfare are satisfied this income will not continue.
It is surprising that you claimed Jobseekers last July and have still not received a decision (either good or bad) on your claim.