Partner receives lcwra, joint claim. Can I quit my job?

Kobayashi

We are currently receiving up, and my partner get lcwra component.

I work a part time job, 4 hrs a day but I am very unhappy with my job as I was promised full time hours when I first started and it never happened. My commute is 2 hrs each way, and obviously this is crazy for such a low amount of hours at minimum wage.

I am in the process of training to drive HGV vehicles and have a test next week. However I am looking to leave my current job asap so I can focus on that and find a job there.

So, in a nutshell, can I quit my current job with no job as of now to go to? We can just about afford to make ends meet on UC/pip. I am worried about getting penalised. Considering that when I start driving for a living, we will most likely not qualify for UC, so it would be an overall benefit to the gov not having to pay us.

Kimi87

Does your partner get Daily Living PIP?

If so, one way forward could be when you quit report that you've left your job and now care for your partner.

As a carer you'll have no work commitments. And be eligible for Carers Element (£198.31 *)

This would tide you over until you get another job.

If not caring for over 35 hours at that point, you can then report that and get the Carers Element removed.

*amount is rising slightly soon.

Kobayashi

Thanks for your reply.

I'd rather not claim carers allowance as my partner needs very minimal care, nowhere near 35 hrs a week.

Kimi87

Carers Element is actually separate from Carers Allowance, but still can't be claimed if cared for less than 35 hours a week.

It might still be worth thinking of all the different things you do for them, shopping, cooking, supervision, sorting out issues on their behalf etc. Doesn't have to be just hands on personal care tasks.