The spread of coronavirus, also called COVID-19, in the UK and across the world could have implications for your work, benefits and travel plans. This guide will look at your rights to sick pay, what benefits you can claim if you’re self-employed or not entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). This page will help you find out what help is available to you based on your circumstances.
Employed
If you’re an employee, the job retention scheme can cover 80 percent of your wages up to £2,500 a month. You might also be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if you’re ill.
Find out more about the support available during the coronavirus outbreak
if you’re employed.
Self employed
If you’re self-employed the self-employment income support scheme might offer you some support. But if your income has dropped significantly, there are a range of benefits you might be able to claim.
Your money
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This is not just a health crisis, but a financial crisis as well. Find out more about how to manage your money during this crisis, as well as what support might be available to you from your bank and lenders when it comes to overdrafts, loans and credit cards.
Car finance payments
If you’re struggling with your car finance payments, you might be able to get up to a six month payment holiday. This will not be suitable for everyone, and if you can afford to you should continue to make payments.
Housing costs
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Rent and mortgage payments are likely to be one of your largest monthly outgoings. Payment holidays if you have a mortgage have already been announced, as has some support if you’re a private renter. You might also be able to get some help if you’re struggling to pay your Council Tax, or Rates if you’re in Northern Ireland.
Your bills
If the coronavirus outbreak is having a serious impact on your finances there is some help available if you’re struggling to pay your gas, electricity and water bills. If you’re on a prepayment meter, there is help available if you’re unable to top up your meter.
Coronavirus if you have children
If you have children this can be a particularly difficult time. What help is available if their school has closed, what this means for your childcare costs and what happens if you are entitled to free school meals?
Moving home
In England, estate agents, removal firms and conveyancers have been allowed to reopen. However, in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland restrictions are still in place preventing home viewings and limiting house sales.
Travel insurance
With the strict restrictions on travel the coronavirus outbreak is likely to have an impact on any trips you already had booked. Many insurers are limiting or changing the cover available through your policy.
Pensions
The coronavirus outbreak has had a major impact on the stockmarket and pension funds. So you might be wondering what decisions you should be making about your pension.
Scams
Unfortunately, the coronavirus outbreak has resulted in an increase in the number of financial scams. These include fraudsters claiming to be offering government backed grants and other kinds of financial support.
Coronavirus and your mental health
Coronavirus will have a big impact on a lot of our finances, which might negatively affect our mental wellbeing. Poor mental wellbeing might mean that you struggle to make the best money-based decisions for you, as well as act upon them. If you are feeling stressed, check out our Money problems and poor mental wellbeing guide for practical tips on how to cope financially through the pandemic, as well as where you can get free specialist help.
Remember, if you are struggling, it is always worth getting in contact with your bank, building society, lender or whoever you owe money to, to discuss your options. Many companies are aware that their customers are struggling with money at the moment and have put processes in to help. However, you can’t benefit from that help if you don’t let them know your situation.
If you are feeling very low or suicidal because of your money worries, you need to talk to someone now. Call 999 if you are in immediate danger or give the Samaritans a call on 166 123.
