Can jobseekers benefit be backdated

Possessing Rights

You must be eligible for the benefit you want backdated for the whole period you want it backdated. So, if you're claiming JSA, you won't be able to have it backdated for any period you worked.

Backdating a claim for several reasons

There are many reasons why you may want a benefit claim backdated. For certain benefits, you do not need to have a particular cause to request that your claim be backdated.

Benefits for bereavement - you may request that your claim be backdated for up to 12 months.

Carers Allowance — you may request that your benefit be backdated for up to three months.

Child Benefit - you may request that your claim be backdated for up to three months.

Guardians Allowance - You may request that your claim be backdated for up to three months.

Industrial Injuries Benefit - You may request that your claim be backdated for up to three months.

Maternity Allowance — you may request that your claim be backdated for up to three months.

Retirement Pension - You may request that your claim be backdated up to 12 months.

'Good Reasons' for Benefit Backdating

Other benefits need 'strong grounds' for the benefit office to backdate your claim. Examples of good reasons include:

You or a family member were sick at the time you were in hospital – but not if you are receiving Job Seekers Allowance.

Someone close to you died around the same time as there was a postal strike.

Things that the benefit office will not accept as "valid grounds" include:

not understanding how the benefit system works or how to claim not knowing what to do next with an issue and not seeking assistance

Obtaining a claim that is backdated

Write a letter to the benefit office requesting that your new claim be started from the older date. To assist you, choose one of the Backdating Request templates shown below.

Include a photocopy or print-out of the evidence you previously stated in your letter.

Keep a copy of the backdating letter as well as your evidence for your records.

Backdating benefits need a compelling justification.

Employment Assistance Allowance

Proof that you were unwell during the time period for which you seek to backdate your claim. A Fit Note or letter from your doctor, as well as a medical certificate, might serve as proof.

Letter