The Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA) scheme encourages people getting certain social welfare payments to become self-employed. People taking part in the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance scheme (pdf) can keep a percentage of their social welfare payment for up to 2 years.
From 1 May 2009, the qualifying period required for BTWEA is reduced from 2 years to 12 months provided you have an underlying entitlement to Jobseekers Allowance.
A new Back to Work Scheme called the Short-Term Enterprise Allowance started May 2009. There is no qualifying period for the Short-Term Enterprise Allowance. You can get immediate access to the allowance but you must meet the qualifying conditions.
For further information please contact us.