Being self-employed can come with a lot of benefits. For example, you get to be your own boss, work your own hours, and have significant control over your own schedule.
However, being self-employed can come with some negative aspects as well. The main one being, your income may at times look sporadic.
When you are self-employed, there is not always a guarantee you are going to get a regular income, week to week. This can sometimes leave people financially stressed and under pressure.
One way in which people can ease their financial stress is through Jobseeker’s Allowance. This is a weekly payment that can help unemployed people have a consistent form of income.
If you are self-employed, you may or may not be entitled to Jobseeker’s Allowance. For any advice or queries regarding this situation, speak to the National Redundancy Helpline today.
How to qualify for Jobseeker’s Allowance
Jobseeker’s Allowance is typically a payment for people who are unemployed who do not have enough PRSI contributions to qualify for Jobseeker’s Benefit. To qualify for Jobseeker’s Allowance, you must:
- Be between the ages of 18-66
- Be a habitual resident of Ireland
- Be unemployed
Although these are the typical qualifying factors for Jobseeker’s Allowance, there may be some circumstances in which people who are not unemployed may be eligible. An example of this is self-employed people being eligible.
Do self-employed people qualify for Jobseeker’s Allowance?
Self-employed people may qualify for Jobseeker’s Allowance. However, it is not guaranteed.
Whether you are eligible or not for Jobseeker’s Allowance will depend on the amount of income you are receiving. Aspects such as the amount of days you work do not impact your eligibility, as they would for an unemployed person who was seeking Jobseeker’s Benefit.
To determine whether or not you qualify for Jobseeker’s Allowance, you must undergo a means test.
What is a means test?
A means test will determine whether or not you are eligible for Jobseeker’s Allowance. Your self-employed income will be assessed to estimate how much income your business will generate over the next 12 months.
Your income over the previous 12 months will be used for the means test to make the projected estimation.
The results of your tests will determine your weekly means, which will be your income minus any work-related expenses in the tested period.
If your weekly means is below the necessary level, you will qualify for Jobseeker’s Allowance.
How to apply for Jobseeker’s Allowance
If you are in need of Jobseeker’s Allowance, you can apply via MyWelfare.ie. Should you require any assistance or advice regarding your application, please feel free to speak to us at the National Redundancy Helpline.
Tips for the self-employed who are out-of-work
Being self-employed can be tough at times. Sometimes, it takes a while for your self-employed career to stabilise, causing stress and anxiety.
However, being self-employed can be a great experience for many. Here are our tips to help you get back on your feet when you are struggling as someone who is self-employed.
As someone who is self-employed, it is very important that you continue to adapt and improve your skills. By constantly learning and developing, you will give yourself the best chance of success.
Don’t be afraid to start part-time courses, learn online and practice skills in your spare time to have the best professional skill set possible.
When you are self-employed, particularly for the first time, it is important to be financially sensible. Unlike being an employee, next week’s income is not always guaranteed, so savings and budgeting can be your best-friend.
If you are trying to start up a new business, or venture into a new part of your career, then your income may be inconsistent as someone who is self-employed. During these early stages, it can be a good idea to take up a part-time job.
Although it may seem like a lot of work, a part-time job can provide some consistency and guarantee at the end of the week. Once you get to a more stable point with self-employment, then you won’t have to worry about consistent income.
If you are looking to start up your own business, or making a career move you have always dreamed of, don’t give up. Many self-employed people will tell you that things are hard in the beginning, but if you stick with it, there’s a good chance things will improve.
Contact the National Redundancy Helpline today
If you are facing difficulties regarding your self-employment and financial situation, don’t be afraid to speak to the National Redundancy Helpline today. Our advisory team are eager to help, so contact us today and we will aim to provide as much clarity and peace of mind as we can.
