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Jobseeker's Allowance cannot be paid under the normal rules if:

• there is a doubt as to whether you are available for and actively seeking work and whether you have a current Jobseeker's Agreement
• the independent Adjudication Officer has decided that you are not available for and/or actively seeking work, or you have not signed a satisfactory Jobseeker's Agreement
• a sanction has been imposed because you have contributed to your becoming or remaining unemployed.

In these circumstances, it may be possible for you to receive a reduced rate of Jobseeker's Allowance under the hardship provision.

If you have children, or someone in your family is sick, disabled, pregnant or cares for a disabled person, you may be entitled to a payment from the beginning of the period that Jobseeker's Allowance cannot be paid under the normal rules. Otherwise you must wait for two weeks.

Ask to see an Employment Service Adviser, who will be able to give you information and, if appropriate, arrange for you to apply for a hardship payment.

More detailed information about applying for a hardship payment is in leaflet JSA9 ("Jobseeker's Allowance - Hardship Provision"), which is available from Jobcentres and Social Security offices.