Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis says as many as four million Brits could be owed £500 from the government as a result of being forced to stay at home and miss out on work.
While many people may be aware of the self-isolation grant - which came into effect on 28 September for those told to stay home by Test and Trace - what they don't seem to realise is that it can be claimed multiple times, reports the Liverpool Echo.
In his weekly MoneySavingExpert.com newsletter, Martin states if you receive certain means-tested benefits and you have to self-isolate, but you're unable to work from home and therefore lose income, you will now be eligible for the payment of £500 for each period of self isolation you're required to undertake.
Isolation periods are 10 days if you have tested positive for coronavirus and 14 days if someone in your household has tested positive.
Four million people on Universal Credit or other benefits may be eligible for the payment, though you can only claim and backdate it once local authorities have set up their systems.
The scheme is open now and your local authority should have set up its system by Monday, October 12.
Who can claim?
Being in receipt of 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 or pension credit.
Councils will also have the discretion to make payments to those who don’t receive the qualifying benefits
But it is only for those on a low income who could suffer financial hardship as a result of not being able to work.
You must have a notification from the NHS Test and Trace Scheme asking you to self-isolate
This will include a unique ID number. This can be because you've tested positive for Covid-19 or if you've recently been in contact with someone who has tested positive.
You will need proof of your employment
Plus, a confirmation from your employer that you are unable to work from home.
If you are self-employed, you will need to show evidence of self-assessment tax returns
Plus, proof that you cannot run your business without social contact.
How do I claim and when?
The grants will be administered by local authorities or by districts and boroughs in county areas. You can contact your local council through the government's website.
