What happens if I’m self-isolating?
If you’re self-isolating, you should be entitled to your usual, contractual sick pay from your employer.
What is the rate of statutory sick pay (SSP)?
You qualify for SSP if you normally earn over £118 a week. If you have symptoms of coronavirus you will get £94.25 a week of SSP.
SSP is now payable from your first day sick, not the fourth.
What if I’m self-employed and self-isolating?
For those self-employed, you can make a claim for Universal Credit and 'New Style' Employment and Support Allowance. Check the government websites for more details.
What if I am on furlough?
Some companies have put employees on furlough. This means you’re not working as the company is temporarily closed, or can’t afford to have all its employees working at the moment.
If you’ve been put on furlough, the government has confirmed you can get 80% of your wages, capped at £2,500, a month through the Coronavirus job retention scheme. Wages will be backdated to March 1st. Your employer will organise this for you.
You can be put on furlough if you’re a worker in a PAYE system, even if you’re on a zero hour contract.
For more information about being in furlough and the coronavirus job retention scheme, visit the dedicated government website.
My child’s school is closed
If you’re a key worker (NHS, emergency services, supermarket worker), you can send your children to school. You can see a full list of key workers here.
Companies can now put you on furlough if you need to take time off to look after your children at home. Speak to your employer to see if this is possible. If you can’t be put on furlough, parents are entitled to take time off in this situation, but this may not all be paid.
What about Universal Credit and benefits?
Universal Credit is available for those on a low income (there is no longer a minimum) and who are unemployed. The amount has been increased due to the coronavirus.
The amount you get depends on various factors, such as age and if you live with anyone. You can apply for Universal Credit on the government website, but the process may take longer than usual.
I already claim Universal Credit and Housing Benefit
If you claim the Housing Benefit or Universal Credit you should also see an increase, as this is going up in line with rent costs.