unemployment benefit

A benefit payable under the Social Security Act 1975 as amended by the Social Security Act 1986 to an unemployed person satisfying certain conditions (e.g. a qualifying contribution record, willingness to undertake any suitable work, and not being involved in a trade dispute). It is paid (with increases for dependants) for a maximum of 312 days of unemployment beginning with the fourth day, Sundays being disregarded for these purposes.