Claiming contribution JSA - how much NI do I have to have paid?

[laurat]

I'd be grateful if someone could help as I can't find the answer to this anywhere!

Since leaving university I have spent one year paying NI in a full time job and a bit more in a part time job, but I'm now unemployed. Am I entitled to JSA or will I not have made enough contributions?

(I'm awaiting a callback next week but am curious to know sooner.) Thanks

[OBonio]

You should be able to claim JSA (depends on how you became unemployed). This will pay your NI while you are unemployed aswell.

[laurat]

Thanks for that.  That's the other thing I'm worried about as I resigned to go travelling for two months, rather than being made redundant or such like.  Will see what they say.

Regarding them paying my NI contributions - is that only if I qualify for JSA? 

[goldenboy]

yep, you'll only get your ni payed if you're receiving benefit. as for the leaving your job bit, you will probably have to fill out some forms at the interview for leaving voluntarily, its called an es84, this is your shot to tell the adjudication panel your reasons for leaving. the adjudication people will contact your previous employer what they think your reasons were, and they will have 10 days to reply. if they dont reply (past employers) then no action is taken. You can get a sanction on your claim for up to 26 weeks but this is usually if you are a serial offender who continually jacks in jobs to sign on. good luck!