Calling the JobCentre Helplines - Don't Bother

I wasn't going to post again today, but unfortunately I realised that I still didn't have a date for when my jobseekers allowance would be paid into my bank account. So, at the recommendation of my advisor yesterday, I called one of the many helplines on the slip of paper that people receive when they enter the JobCentre.

I.e., the big palm-off paper - I was given this last week when I turned up in person, first thing in the morning, to make my claim. I did this because the questions online were a bit unclear and convoluted and I've always believed that taking the bull by the horns is the best approach to life.

Despite this, I was told to go home and do it on the phone or internet. You cannot make a claim in person any more.

Soo, armed with just one, very simple question, ("Do you have an exact date for the payment of my jobseekers allowance?") I called the helpline. I was on hold for half an hour. I balanced the receiver on its back so I could go and do other things (dust, make coffee, check emails) and finally, a very tired and disillusioned woman answered the phone.

"Ten days, maybe even 14 days. So, from your claim date. Although, it might have been on the Monday."

What?!?!?! What Monday?? When?? This is not a straightforward answer to decipher.

I decided not to pursue this any further as, when I tried to get her to be more specific, she didn't seem to appreciate it. The general situation, though, as I understand it, is that these 10-14 working days start from the date you first fill out the forms to claim. So, in my case, this will be the 2nd November, exactly a week ago today.

Despite it being recommended by advisors, I would not call the helplines, unless absolutely necessary. If you do, please make sure you are equipped with the following:

  

Signing On,

YAC.