Lay-offs and short-time working

Skip contents

Extra work or claiming benefits

You can take on another job while you’re laid off or on short-time (unless your contract says you must not).

You should:

• get your employer’s agreement
• make sure you’re not working for a competitor
• make sure you’re available for your original job once the lay-off or short-time ends

Benefits you can claim

You might be able to get Universal Credit or New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (or both) while you’re laid off or on short-time.

View a printable version of the whole guide