Lone parent, what will happen if I leave my job after maternity leave?

[Kacie]

Hi, I know there is a similar question on here but I am a lone parent so there is no other wages to take into account.

I am currently getting SMP of £124 a week. I have just applied for housing benefit and working tax credit and that seems to be going ok. When I was with my ex the plan was that I wouldn't go back to work and his wages would cover us, but I guess plans change and he is no longer in the picture.

I still really don't want to go back to work after my Mat leave finishes (stop being paid in Jan and finishes in May). I don't earn anywhere near enough to cover child care and I really don't want to leave my little girl in childcare while I go to work.

Would I be entitled to any income support or anything if I resign from my job to look after my baby?

xx

 

[amandad192]

I'm pretty sure you'll get IS. Go into your local JC and doube check. I know JSA, if you resign you can't claim for a while, but I think IS will be different because you don't HAVE to work.
Your housing benefit will go by the LHA, if you rent is higher you have to make up the difference.

If you continue to work, tax credits can pay something towards child care. I have no idea how much they pay max though.