From 28 September, you may be able to claim £500 if you have been told by NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate and you cannot do your work at home.
You can only claim the payment for up to 14 days after the end of your self-isolation period. So do not wait.
The scheme will run until 31 January 2021.
Who can claim
To receive the Test and Trace Support Payment, you must:
Be asked to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace from the 28 September
Be employed or self-employed
Be losing income because you are unable to work from home
Be currently receiving one or more 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
How to apply
You must complete our online form to apply.
You will need:
A notification from NHS Test and Trace asking you to self-isolate (including the unique 8-character account ID);
Proof that you receive one of the benefits listed above;
A bank statement;
Proof of employment – like a recent payslip. Self-employed applicants should provide evidence of self-assessment returns, trading income and being unable to work from home.
If you get the payment, you are agreeing to self-isolate for however long you have been told to do so. The payment is there to help you do this. This will help stop coronavirus spreading.
You will get a text message or email from NHS Test and Trace with your account ID number in it. If you don’t have a mobile phone or an email account you’ll get a letter. You will need this number to apply for your support payment.
Yes, the payment is taxed. You won’t be taxed when it’s paid to you. Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will contact you later if you're employed. If you are self-employed, you will need to declare the payment on your self-assessment tax return.
National Insurance contributions aren't taken from the payment.