COVID-19 self-isolation payment

A new government city benefit scheme was launched on 1 September 2020 which will see eligible individuals receiving up to £182 if they are required to go into self-isolation due to COVID-19.  Initially it will apply only in certain areas in England which are affected by local lockdowns.

To be eligible for this new payment, individuals must:

  • be employed or self-employed
  • be receiving either working tax credit or Universal Credit
  • have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been formally advised to self-isolate due to the positive test of a close contact
  • be unable to work from home for the duration of their self-isolation period
  • be at risk of losing income as a result of self-isolation


To receive a payment, eligible individuals will need to provide:

  • official notification from NHS Test and Protect
  • a bank statement
  • proof of employment / self – employment

Under the terms of the initial trial, the payment arrangements for this benefit are as follows:

  • individuals confirmed as infected with COVID-19 will receive £130 for their 10-day period of self-isolation
  • other eligible members of their household will receive £182 for their 14-day period of self-isolation
  • non-household close contacts who are officially advised to self-isolate will receive £14 per day, up to a maximum of £182, for their maximum 14-day period of self-isolation

 
The government anticipates that payments will be made to affected individuals within 48 hours of the necessary evidence being provided.  For more information on this scheme, please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-payment-for-people-self-isolating-in-highest-risk-areas.