Maximising benefits
Your benefit options
Coronavirus could have financial implications for many of us and will be affecting some people right now. Fortunately, the Government has put in place a number of measures to help people during this time.
Help for employees
- If your employer has laid you off temporarily or placed you on shorter working hours, the government has said it will cover up to 80% of employees’ salaries though grants to businesses – so you should still receive a regular income based on either the amount you earned in the same month last year or an average of your monthly earnings from the last year – whichever is higher
- If you are sick because of coronavirus and are self-isolated, you can claim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
Help for self-employed
- You can claim a grant through the coronavirus (Covid-19) self-employment support scheme. You can claim a taxable grant worth 80% of your trading profits up to a maximum of £2,500 per month for the next three months. You can’t apply yet but HMRC will contact you if you are eligible and invite you to apply online
- You are not entitled to SSP but you may be able to apply for Universal Credit and if you are sick and cannot work you may be able to apply for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Applying for benefits
Many people do not apply for the benefits they are already entitled to and receiving these could make a real difference to their income. At the moment, there are special measures and some rule changes for benefits to help people during the current situation.
You can check what benefits you may be entitled to using this Benefits Calculator by Turn 2 Us.
If you live in England and are asked to self isolate by NHS Test and Trace, you may be entitled to the Test and Trace Support Payment Scheme. Contact your local authority to find out how to apply.
Your home
If you are worried about being able to pay your mortgage or your rent, we have more information which you can find here.
How we can help
Navigating the benefits system can be tricky. If you need some help or advice, chat to us online or call our helpline on 08081 311 333.
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