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Help paying for training if you’re returning to work at 50 plus

Started a new job after being out of work for a while? The Fifty Plus In-work Training Grant could come in handy if you need to update your skills to help you get started – or to boost your prospects in your new job.

Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to use the grant to help with:

• bringing your trade qualifications or industry knowledge up to date
• improving your computer skills
• brushing up on other skills you need for work

• More on training and learning for work

What can the Fifty Plus In-work Training Grant cover?

The grant could give you up to £1,500 towards work related training, whether it’s delivered by your employer, at a local college or through another learning provider. This can include tuition fees, books and other course-related costs like registration and exam fees.

Do you qualify for the Fifty Plus In-work Training Grant?

You could be eligible for the grant if you:

• are currently working (including self-employment)
• have previously claimed at least one benefit from the list below, continuously for at least 26 weeks
• are no longer claiming any of these benefits, and were aged 50 or over when you stopped claiming

You’ll need to apply for the grant no longer than 52 weeks after you stop getting the relevant benefit.

Benefits that qualify for the grant

The benefits that can qualify you for the grant are:

• Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Incapacity Benefit
• Employment and Support Allowance
• Income Support
• Severe Disablement Allowance
• Pension Credit
• Bereavement Allowance
• Carer’s Allowance
• Jobcentre Plus Allowance Payments
• Auto Credits
• National Insurance Credits

• Benefits and financial support (money, tax and benefits section)

Types of training that qualify for the grant

You can only get the grant to pay for training that Jobcentre Plus considers closely related to your work.

You won’t be awarded the grant until you’ve started the training, but you should check with a Jobcentre Plus adviser before you commit. They will be able to tell you whether the training you’ve got in mind is likely to qualify for the grant.

How to apply for the Fifty Plus In-work Training Grant

If you think you might qualify for the grant and want to apply, the first step is to get in touch with an adviser at your local Jobcentre Plus office.

• Find your local Jobcentre Plus office Opens new window

More on help getting back into work at 50 plus

You may be able to get additional help through New Deal 50 plus. Jobcentre Plus advisers can provide guidance on finding a job, and after you’ve started work you may be able to top up your wages through Working Tax Credit.

• New Deal 50 plus (employment section)

• Tax credits (money, tax and benefits section)

More useful links

• Returning to learning