People on low incomes who have had to self-isolate and have been unable to work due to Coronavirus may be eligible for a £500 payment. Please use the menu below for more information.
The Government has introduced a Test and Trace Support Payment scheme to support people on low incomes if they can't work during their self-isolation period. This may be because they have tested positive for coronavirus or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive.
As part of the scheme, eligible people will receive a £500 lump sum payment.
Self-isolating is very important as it helps prevent family, friends and the community from contracting coronavirus. It also protects the health and care system.
This scheme will run until 31 January 2021.
More information is available on the gov.uk website.
You are eligible for the Test and Trace Support payment if you: |
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have been asked to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace because:
and are currently receiving:
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Individuals who are required to self-isolate and who meet the eligibility criteria will be entitled to £500. This will be payable as a lump sum.
Payments are subject to income tax but not National Insurance contributions.
You are entitled to the payment if you meet the eligibility criteria and have been asked to self-isolate on or after 28 September 2020.
When the scheme is open for applications you will need to submit the following evidence:
Please note: Any claim must be made within 28 days of the last day of your NHS test and trace isolation period. The same Test and Trace Support Payment application form can be used for both the main scheme and the discretionary scheme.
Whether you meet the criteria or not set by Government, there is help available for those facing financial difficulty or needing support. The Suffolk Support and Advice Service helps people across the county access information or support relating to debt, benefits, housing or employment. You can contact the service on 0800 068 3131 between 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday or visit the Suffolk Support and Advice Service website.
Local residents required to self isolate but who do not fulfil all the requirements of the Track and Trace payment scheme may be able to get other support.
Local authorities can make a £500 discretionary payment to individuals who:
In addition, the discretionary payment is for people:
For both the Test and Trace Support Payment and discretionary payments, eligible individuals will receive their £500 payment on top of any benefits and Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) that they currently receive.
If an individual is not successful for either the Track and Trace Support Payment or the Discretionary fund there is no right of appeal.