[ REDUNDANCY ] you need to read the details to make sure that you qualify .” If the worst comes to the worst and you do lose your job , your first step should be to check what benefits you are entitled to . Don ’ t feel embarrassed about this – remember , you have paid into the system through tax and national insurance contributions every time you have received a paycheque , so it is only right you can benefit if you fall on hard times .
Every little helps “ The main benefit available nowadays is the new-style Jobseeker ’ s Allowance ( JSA ) and this can be payable for up to six months ,” Fisher continues . “ You may also be able to get help with other costs such as housing and childcare through Universal Credit . This benefit has recently replaced many older types of benefits like housing benefit and tax credits . Check out the
government website for further details .” The next step is to work out what you spend your money on . Nelson recommends filling out a budget planner as it forces you to scrutinise where your money is going and make cut-backs if required . “ You can see where you can make changes to your expenditure , either by going on one of the supermarket websites and doing some comparisons ,
“ You can see where you can make changes to your expenditure , either by going on one of the supermarket websites and doing some comparisons , or just looking at the things that you may have been committed to doing on a monthly basis ”
or just looking at the things that you may have been committed to doing on a monthly basis ,” she says . “ The first thing is to look at regular bills : is there a way you can make savings ? Have you reviewed your utilities ? Even if it saves you £ 20 or £ 30 pounds a month , that ’ s a contribution towards shopping .”
Draconian Lowcock says you may have to take a draconian approach at this point . “ Ask , what can you afford to stop ? What is not essential and what is ? See what your minimum living costs are ,” he continues . “ It will probably include internet access – that ’ s the reality today , you won ’ t get very far looking for another job without the internet .
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