Help with the cost of finding or taking up work
Finding or starting work
Always get a full benefit check to determine which benefits you are entitled to and the amounts you should receive. Then, if you need help with the costs of finding, traveling to, starting or staying in work, or with getting to the Jobcentre use the checklists below to see what you might qualify for.
This checklist is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the benefits or help for which you might qualify and is not a full statement of the law. Get specialist advice where appropriate.
If you need help with the costs of finding, starting or staying in work
Your circumstances | What to check | More information |
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If you need help with costs associated with finding or starting work, or doing training | Check if you can get financial support from the Flexible Support Fund. This might include, for example, getting help with upfront childcare costs when you start work or increase your working hours and with travel costs. The Flexible Support Fund is a discretionary fund administered by local Jobcentre Plus offices. If you are refused payment from the Flexible Support Fund, check information from our Judicial Review Project. | Welfare Benefits and Tax Credits Handbook (for subscribers):
Universal credit guidance: (pdf) CPAG's Judicial Review (JR) Project:(England and Wales)
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If you need help with travel costs | If you are on universal credit or jobseeker's allowance, or are on another benefit and actively engage with a work coach at the Jobcentre, check if you qualify for a Jobcentre Plus travel discount card. This gives a 50 per cent reduction on selected rail fares, and on other public transport in some areas. Apply at your local Jobcentre Plus office. | Welfare Benefits and Tax Credits Handbook (for subscribers):
GOV.UK:
Stagecoach:
National rail:
Transport for London:
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You may qualify for free or reduced cost fares or help with transport costs in other circumstances. | CPAG Welfare Rights::
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If you need equipment or support to find or stay in work | If you need aids, adaptations, or assistance to help you find or stay in work because you have a health condition or disability, check whether you can get an Access to Work grant. Access to Work grants are not means-tested and are available whether you are working for someone else or are self-employed. | Disability Rights Handbook (for subscribers):
GOV.UK:
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If you are a young person living in Scotland and you are starting work | If you are aged 16 to 24 (or aged 16 to 25 and a care leaver), you live in Scotland, and you have had a job offer in the last six months, check if you qualify for a one-off Job Start Payment. | Welfare Benefits and Tax Credits Handbook (for subscribers):
mygov.scot:
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If you need help starting a new business
Your circumstances | What to check | More information |
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If you are starting or have a new business | You may qualify for a government-backed unsecured personal loan to help start or develop your business. Check whether you are eligible for a Start Up loan.  Get independent financial advice before taking out a loan. | GOV.UK:
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Last updated on 15 April 2024