If you're taxed as an individual, you should receive benefits as an individual

Rejected 9 signatures

What the petition asks

Since 1996 working couples, despite being taxed as individuals, are only entitled to 6 months of benefits if one of them loses their employment, and have to work for a further 2 years to be eligible again. They must rely on their partner to support them after that time.

This needs to change as, if you pay into the system as an individual, you should receive benefits as an individual. It is unfair that couples who never work or pay into the system are not penalised in the same way, and move seamlessly from welfare benefits to state pension. Most other countries allow an individual whose partner works, to claim for around 2 years. People affected by this draconian rule are at the mercy of their partners to provide them with an income and this needs to stop.

Why it was rejected

It was not clear what the petition asked the UK Government or Parliament to do.

Petitions need to call on the Government or Parliament to take a specific action.

We're not sure exactly what you'd like the Government or Parliament to do.

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Timeline

12 Jan 2025	Petition opened for signatures
7 Mar 2025	Rejected by the Petitions Committee

Key facts

Signatures 9

Status Rejected

Rejected 7 Mar 2025

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