Working hours: benefits rules - Calculating work hours: Self-employed people
Benefit entitlement can depend on how many hours of paid work you do per week.
Calculating work hours: Self-employed people
Income Support or Jobseeker's Allowance
If you are self-employed, it is the number of hours normally performed for payment or expectation of payment that count.
You should include all the hours needed to run your business. This can include visiting potential clients; typing up estimates; buying stock; bookkeeping etc.
Tip: keep a diary note of all hours you do for your business in case you need to show proof.
Working Tax Credit
If you are self-employed, it is the number of hours normally performed for payment or expectation of payment.
You should count all the hours needed to run your business, including visiting potential clients, typing up estimates, buying stock, bookkeeping etc.
Tip: Keep a diary to record all the hours you do for your business in case you need to show proof.
Reviewed: June 2022
Was this page helpful?
Tell us the problem
*Required
Thank you
Thank you for your feedback. If you would like to tell us more please visit our contact us page.
Check benefit entitlement
Find out what means-tested benefits you might be entitled to, including tax credits.
Grants Search
Search our database of grant-giving organisations.
Find an adviser
Search for advice and support services near you.