when should i apply for perm residency for partner?//benefit

Hi, i was browsing the net for some clear cut answers, but to no avail...this site is actually VERY good and the advice for good too! I have some questions which i hope that the experts can help me with? I got married abroad, he has now joined me in the country, it has been a yr now. I am a British Citizen, he has a 2 yr visa. I want to know when should i apply for his permenant residency? and what should i do, who do i need to contact and what are the fees involved?

I have another question regarding benefits...I am aware that my husband is not allowed any public funds, which is fine...but i worked 2 yrs, prior to which i was doing my full time studies...however due to unforeseen circumstances, i left work and started to sign on to JSA. Now, what i want to know is can i make any claims to any benefits just in my sole name or is it that due to the fact that he is working, i cannot claim?? It seems rather unfair that they will not give anything for him, yet if he is working, he needs to provide/support me financially...? I hope you guys can help me with this...


Izzy