Clueless re entitlements: can someone help?

[ulcercentral]

Hi all,

Firstly, I apologise if this is rehashing over stuff again, I just need some help, be it here on this thread, or via pm!

I'm currently self-employed, however, I was employed up to January 2008. As things are so quiet in the area I work in, I'm not bringing in much so far this year and made a loss last year.

I have been looking for work out there, be it contract or employed, and I've been advised to consider getting jobseekers benefit/allowance, I don't know which.

Could someone advise on what I may be entitled to, as someone who is working in a self-employed capacity, making a loss, and actively seeking alternative means of work....

I've tried contacting SW numerous times lately to speak with someone, but no one answers the phone

Should I literally just walk into my local office and speak to someone there and then about my predicament?

TIA for any help/advice!
UC

 

[Ann1]

Do a search on 'self employed sw entitlements'. Welfarite did a excellent post on 7/4/09.

 

[Welfarite]

This is the keypost that will start you off. Basically, you can claim JA which is means tested. You don't have to deregister from self-employment. You will need to show them evidence of how you income has reduced in recent times (bank statements, monthly accounts, etc.).

 

[ulcercentral]

Thanks for the replies, and I saw that post alright Welfarite, it's great!

I went down to my local SW office and just asked them for help Turns out I'm entitled to JB as I am seeking work and have enough PRSI contributions from when I was employed. I am claiming on a casual basis due to be self-employed so it means I'll get something for the days I don't have any work on.

Again, thanks!

 

[Welfarite]

Thanks for the replies, and I saw that post alright Welfarite, it's great!

I went down to my local SW office and just asked them for help Turns out I'm entitled to JB as I am seeking work and have enough PRSI contributions from when I was employed. I am claiming on a casual basis due to be self-employed so it means I'll get something for the days I don't have any work on.

Again, thanks!

sorry for leading you astray with the JA thing. Didn't cop on to your mention that you were employed up to January 2008! Great you don't have to do the means test so.