DWP could pay you £996 a month if you're out of work

Brits who are actively job hunting could be eligible for over £996 a month in benefit payments, provided they meet certain criteria.

The Department for Work and () has outlined several benefit payments that could assist those currently out of work. These additional payments are designed to offer financial support to those planning to re-enter the workforce and require an income while transitioning between jobs.

This could encompass a variety of benefits accessible to a broad spectrum of individuals, such as , while other benefits are specifically aimed at particular groups or those seeking employment. Although some individuals may need to claim more than one of the following benefits simultaneously to receive the maximum amount, additional financial assistance can still be obtained if you only qualify for one.

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Read on for three benefits that could provide support while you're on the hunt for a new job. Those who can claim both Universal Credit and the New Style JSA could receive more than £996 every four weeks.

Universal Credit

Universal Credit is a benefit aimed at helping people with living costs and is paid monthly. While it's often distributed to those on a low income, it's also available to those who are unemployed.

To be eligible for Universal Credit, you generally need to be aged 18 or over, be below State Pension age, and have £16,000 or less in savings and investments.

The following rates can be provided per households depending on your situation:.

If you're single and under 25, you'll receive £316.98. If you're single and 25 or over, you'll get £400.14.

If you're living with a partner and you're both under 25, you'll receive £497.55. If you're living with your partner and one of you is 25 or over, you'll get £628.10.

More information can be found on

Jobseeker's Allowance

Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) is being phased out by Universal Credit, but some can still apply for the New Style JSA. To claim, you need to have worked as an employee and paid Class 1 National Insurance Contributions, usually in the last two to three years.

You must also be aged 18 or over, under State Pension age, not in full-time education, and living in the UK. The two rates for JSA depend on your age: £72.90 a week if you're 24 and under, and up to £92.05 a week if you're 25 or over.

Remember, the DWP expects you to take 'reasonable' steps to look for work as agreed with a work coach. More details can be found on

Pension Credit

Pension Credit is a benefit for people over the State Pension Age who also have a low income. It can provide up to £346.60 per week if you have a partner, or £227.10 if you're single.

Pension credit can also give you access to other benefits like Housing Benefit, the Winter Fuel Payment, and a council tax discount. More information can be found on GOV.UK