By Jordan Dobson and Luke Conner

On Tuesday 12th September, a Benefit Cap Advice Day was held at the Harlow Job Centre.

YH spoke to spoke Sally, a work coach at the Harlow Job Centre Plus.
Sally said: “The centre was holding a Benefit Cap event in order to make those aware that it’s better for you to be earning an income rather than relying on the benefits from the government.

“So how do you know if you’re entitled to this? The job centre will help you calculate all your benefits together if they are over your categories allowance then they will be capped. Categories are below.

Caps from autumn Autumn 2016

Outside of London

£384.62 per week (£20,000 a year) if you’re in a couple, whether your children live with you or not.
£384.62 per week (£20,000 a year) if you’re single and your children live with you.
£257.69 per week (£13,400 a year) if you’re single and you don’t have children, or your children don’t live with you.

Inside London
£442.31 per week (£23,000 a year) if you’re in a couple, whether your children live with you or not.
£442.31 per week (£23,000 a year) if you’re single and your children live with you.
£296.35 per week (£15,410 a year) if you’re single and you don’t have children, or your children don’t live with you.

“However, those with disabilities or living with those with disabilities than this cap doesn’t apply. The cap will affect everyone differently depending on your income”.

For more information about the cap please go to www.gov.uk/benefit-cap
Or call the benefit helpline to speak to a someone on 03456057064