Thousands of people claiming Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance could see their travel costs cut in half. Households across the UK could be entitled to the half-price travel fares thanks to a discount card.
The free Jobcentre Plus travel card slashes the cost of travelling on public transport, including buses and trains. It is only available for unemployed people looking for work and who claim benefits including Universal Credit and Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).
The cards are meant to help with the cost of getting to and from job interviews. All train operators in England, Scotland and Wales accept the discount card – which is valid for up to three months, reports BirminghamLive.
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The discount card lets users save money by purchasing a seven-day or monthly travel card at a child’s rate. However, even if you are claiming benefits, it does not mean you will be automatically be given one.
The cards are handed out by Jobcentre staff on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the work coaches. You may be refused a card even if you meet the criteria, for example, if travelling on public transport is not accessible where you live.
Unfortunately, there is no way of appealing a work coach’s decision if your application is turned down. If you meet any of the below criteria, you may be able to get a card:
- Universal Credit claimants in the all work related requirements group from 13 weeks to 39 weeks for ages 18 to 24 and from 13 weeks to 52 weeks for ages 25 and over
- Universal Credit claimants not in the all work related requirements group who are actively engaged with a work coach in returning to employment.
- JSA Claimants from 13 weeks to 39 weeks for ages 18 to 24 and 13 weeks to 52 weeks for ages 25 and over
- Employment Support Allowance and Income Support claimants who are actively engaged with a work coach in returning to employment.
The all work related requirements group means you are expected to do all you can to find a job or earn more, including looking and applying for jobs and going to interviews. Those who are not in this group may still be expected to turn up at regular meetings with their work coach and do things like write a CV.
If you claim any of the above benefits and are interested in a Jobcentre Plus travel card you could speak to your work coach or contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). People who do not fall into those categories may still be able to get help with travel costs through the Flexible Support Fund.
This pot of cash is managed by local job centres and can be issued on top of other benefits. The grants can be used to help cover the costs of childcare, uniforms, public transport or work tools – as long as they help you get a job.
The funds do not have to be paid back but claimants do not have an automatic right to receive the help. This is down to your advisor’s discretion.