I have a meeting with the LEO for advice regarding an online business I have just set up. I got laid off during the summer and decided to give my own thing a go.
I’m currently on job seekers benefit. I’m wondering will they start asking me about how I’m currently making money or if I’m on the dole . As I’m making nothing off my website that I just launched I’m still getting job seekers benefit and I’m concerned they could cut me off.
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No, there’s actually a payment called BTWEA (back to work enterprise allowance) where you have to be on benefits for 9 months I believe it is, and then you can get 100% of your benefits for up to a year, and then half after that.
The LEO are unlikely to ask you about your income anyways, but unless you’re earning money you are entitled to your benefits.
Even better, there’s a Short Term Enterprise Allowance which kicks in immediately. OP they are highly likely to advise you to get onto this scheme. You get the same income as your jobseekers but it goes straight into your bank account and you can work on your business. You can also access a roughly €1000 grant and then there are other supports from the LEO too.
So you can go straight onto the STEA if you’re unemployed? Never knew that.. would have been handy🤣
Pretty sure the LEO grants are matched funding though?
Yep, that’s the idea! It allows you to focus on starting a business rather than looking for work.
There are various matches needed for the different grants, some are 50% but some are only 10%. And if you’re in a position to apply for them then there are often loans you can get to make the match funding.
You can also convert your Jobseeker Pay Related Benefit into a 'Short term Enterprise Allowance' when you start your own company. Same amount, paid for the entire 9 months, directly to your bank account.
You can also claim back takes you’ve paid over the last few years when starting a business. You’ll be fine. If the mentor turns out to be a dud, dm me and I’ll help you out.