You might be eligible for a £500 payment from the government, if you're on a low income and meet certain conditions.
The payment scheme has been set up to help people, as Covid continues to affect livelihoods.
People in England who have to self-isolate could qualify for the Test and Trace Support Payment scheme, Birmingham Live reports.
If they are on a low income or are in receipt of specific state benefits you can apply.
The parent or guardian of a child or young person who is self-isolating may also be eligible.
Those on benefits including Universal Credit may be able to get the payment.
The discretionary amount is available to those who are currently receiving (or are the partner of someone in the same household who is receiving), at least one of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- income-based Employment and Support Allowance
- income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Pension Credit
These benefits generally need to be paid on top of earnings from a job. You would need to show you are unable to work from home and will lose income as result of self-isolating.
If you are not on one of these benefits, you might still be eligible for the cash if you meet all the other criteria, are on a low income, and face financial hardship as a result of self-isolating.
In England, the Test and Trace Support Payment scheme is run by local councils. You can claim up to 42 days after the first day of your self-isolation period.
For the application, you will need to provide:
- an NHS Test and Trace Account ID, sometimes referred to as a CTAS number
- a bank statement
- proof of employment or, if you’re self-employed, evidence of self-assessment returns, trading income and proof that your business delivers services that cannot be undertaken without social contact
If you are applying as a parent or guardian, you will need to provide your child’s NHS Test and Trace Account ID.
