Benefits after Resigning...

[Ermieox]

I am a single parent currently signed off work with depression (receiving SSP through my employer) and am considering handing in my notice.
Can anyone tell me how long I would have to wait before being eligible to claim benefit if I leave my job voluntarily?

Thanks in advance

[dot.haukes]

you would get income based benefit more or less straight away as you have dependants. Whilst you are on SSP don;t resign, wait until they start pressurising you for a return to work date. How many weeks left of SSP are they likely to be paying you?

[Tiff-]

Hi there,
You may just be better having your dr to keep signing you off. Things can sometimes be a bit tricky when you walk away voluntarily. If you're about to run out of SSP from your employer, I'd sit tight and let them make the move.
Income Support will be payable if you have a child under 16, or 18 if they go to college. I think you would be entitled to this.

It's a good idea to ask your gp and mental health professional if you have one, to write a letter for you saying how you are affected and whether they consider that you will be unable to do your job long term or return to it.

Depending on your diagnosis, history and how your depression affects your life, you may be entitled to claim Disability Living Allowance (DLA) - I think that's after 6 months. DLA is not a means tested benefit and is not affected by whether you work or not, or are single or not. It is purely based upon how your illness affects you and on the medical assessment.

Good luck hunnie. ;)

[Ermieox]

Thanks guys. SSP is only adding to my stresses at the moment as it's not enough to cover my bills but am due back to my doctor and will discuss with him.