Jobseeker's Allowance Calculator
Estimate your New Style Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) for 2025/26 — £72.90 a week if you're under 25 or £92.05 if you're 25 or over — and see how earnings and pensions cut it.
JSA estimate
New Style JSA, 2025/26 weekly rates.
A guide to New Style JSA only. Check and claim on GOV.UK Jobseeker's Allowance.
What is Jobseeker's Allowance?
Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) is money for people who are out of work, or working fewer than 16 hours a week, and actively looking for a job. New Style JSA is based on your National Insurance record from the last two to three tax years and is paid for up to 182 days (six months). You can claim it on its own or alongside Universal Credit.
For 2025/26, New Style JSA is £72.90 a week if you are under 25 and £92.05 a week if you are 25 or over. Part-time earnings above a small disregard, and pension income over £50 a week, reduce the amount you get.
2025/26 JSA rates
| Your age | 2025/26 (weekly) |
|---|---|
| Under 25 | £72.90 |
| 25 or over | £92.05 |
| Maximum length | 182 days (6 months) |
| Earnings disregard (single) | £5 / week |
Source: GOV.UK — Benefit and pension rates 2025/26.
How earnings and pensions affect JSA
New Style JSA is not means-tested on savings, but part-time earnings count. The first £5 a week (£20 for some) is ignored, and earnings above that reduce JSA pound for pound. A private or occupational pension over £50 a week also reduces JSA by the amount above £50. If you need help with rent or have a partner and children, Universal Credit is usually the better route for ongoing support.
Frequently asked questions
How much is Jobseeker's Allowance in 2025/26?
New Style JSA is £72.90 a week if you are under 25 and £92.05 a week if you are 25 or over. It is paid for up to 182 days (about six months) based on your National Insurance record.
How long can I claim New Style JSA?
New Style JSA can be paid for a maximum of 182 days — roughly six months — in any single jobseeking period. After that you would usually need to rely on Universal Credit if you are still looking for work.
Do my savings affect JSA?
No. New Style JSA is based on your National Insurance contributions, not your savings or your partner's income, so money in the bank does not stop your claim. The means-tested route for low income is Universal Credit.
Can I work part-time and still get JSA?
Yes, if you work fewer than 16 hours a week and keep looking for more work. The first £5 of weekly earnings is ignored (more in some cases), and earnings above that reduce your JSA pound for pound.
Can I get JSA and Universal Credit at the same time?
Yes. New Style JSA can be paid alongside Universal Credit. The JSA you receive is then counted as income when your Universal Credit award is calculated.