Does New Enterprise Allowance affect Universal Credit?

The loan has to be paid back, the allowance doesn’t. Any money you get doesn’t affect your Housing Benefit, tax credits, Income Tax, Universal Credit or Access to Work grant.

Is the New Enterprise Allowance a loan?

Like the NEA, you will be assigned with an appropriate Delivery Partner who will work closely with you to create a business plan. If you pitch to the panel and are successful, you will receive an unsecured, low-cost loan.

Can I start my own business while on Universal Credit?

If you start a business while you are claiming Universal Credit, the minimum income floor will not apply to you for the first 12 months. This ‘start up period’ gives you a chance to grow your business. You can only have one start up period for each business and you can only have one start up period in every five years.

Do you have to pay back the New Enterprise Allowance?

The money you get from the NEA doesn’t have to be paid back. However, you might also be offered a Start-Up Loan as well as the Allowance. If you take out this loan, you will have to pay it back within five years, and you will pay interest on it.

Can I claim Universal Credit as a director?

Universal Credit treats directors of small limited companies as self-employed, even though they are not. Because directors are treated as self-employed, they can be affected by the minimum income floor in Universal Credit. See our help on the minimum income floor for more information.

What is the New Enterprise Allowance Scheme?

What is the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) scheme? The NEA scheme is a business support programme offered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It aims to help those claiming certain unemployment benefits to become self-employed.

How does New Enterprise Allowance work?

It consists of a combination of business mentoring, a weekly allowance, and a business loan. Once you join the scheme you’ll be assigned a business mentor. This person will help you put together your business plan, and will support you in turning your idea into a realistic, revenue-generating venture.

Can you work cash in hand on Universal Credit?

While you are claiming benefits you are free to accept any kind of work and be paid either cash in hand or into your bank account — however you MUST declare all earnings to the benefit office.

How long does New Enterprise Allowance last?

If you are aged 18 or over and receiving any of the following benefits, you could be eligible for the New Enterprise Allowance programme; providing a weekly allowance paid for up to 26 weeks (maximum £1,274).

How much do you get on the NEA?

It aims to help those claiming certain unemployment benefits to become self-employed. If you complete the NEA scheme and your business starts trading, you can receive a weekly allowance valued up to a total of £1,274 over a 26 week period (the final amount may vary based on other benefits you are receiving).

Can I claim benefits if I own a limited company?

The short answer is yes, a limited company contractor who is a company director and shareholder can claim JSA.