OSW has developed two IntoWork Calculators to help single homeless people make informed decisions about whether they are financially better off in work.

The calculators produce projected income for two different scenarios. The first column shows the individual's current income, including income from active or inactive benefits, while the second column shows an individual's indicative income if he or she starts work, including any applicable income from in-work benefits such as Working Tax Credit. This way, an individual can compare their income in both scenarios and make informed decisions about at what point employment is right for them.

Simple Calculator

The Simple Calculator is for single homeless people to use independently and can be accessed on the left hand side of this page. Please note that the results of the simple calculator should be used as a rough guide only. You are advised to seek the support of your local Jobcentre Plus office for a more accurate calculation.

Comprehensive Calculator

The Comprehensive Calculator is for frontline staff working with single homeless people. To ensure a suitable level of understanding and application, the comprehensive calculator can only be accessed after completing the associated training programme (currently being developed). Please contact Ian Perkins for further information, on 020 7089 2729, or email ianperkins@osw.org.uk.

Before you start using the IntoWork Calculator

The information you may need before you start using the IntoWork Calculator can be found in the checklist. If you need an explanation of the words used throughout the IntoWork Calculator, you can use the glossary.

Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to be able to accurately calculate your benefit entitlement on the following pages. However, OSW cannot take responsibility for any discrepancies that may become apparent when an individual liaises directly with their local Jobcentre Plus office.

Please read our full disclaimer.

WARNING: These calculators are specifically designed to provide advice for single people and they don't take into account people in partnerships or people with dependants when making benefit calculations. The calculator is still in development, and is also currently only applicable to people living in hostels. Please only use the calculator if this definition applies to you.

To start using the IntoWork Calculator, please use the menu on the left.