Not able to work because of Coronvirus?
What is happening in the world and the UK is unprecedented. It is impacting everyone however those people that are self employed are being hit rather cruelly financially. The following provides some guidance as what to do to limit the financial impact on you and your family if you are self employed.
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Please note, The Square does not provide legal advice. The following information is provided as helpful guidance only. Please always get specialist advice from qualified advisors if in doubt.
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme
If you're self-employed or a member of a partnership and have been affected financially by coronavirus, find out if you can claim a grant for lost earnings.
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Click here to find out more and to see if you're eligible.
Employment & Support Allowance
If you're self-employed and can't work because you're ill with coronavirus, you won't be able to get statutory sick pay (SSP). If you pay national insurance you might be eligible to claim contribution-based or 'new style' ESA. You'll get ESA from the first day you're ill.
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Click here to find out more about ESA and if you are eligible and click here to see how you can claim.
Universal Credit
If you're self employed and unable to find any work due to lack of jobs but you are not sick, Universal Credit may be the best option for you to help financially. Universal Credit is a payment to help you with your living costs and is paid monthly although you can get an upfront payment under certain circumstances.
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Click here to find out more about Universal Credit and click here to apply for Universal Credit.
Mortgage Holiday
If keeping up with your bills and food on the table may be a challenge, speak to your bank or lender. Banks have recently agreed with the Chancellor that they will offer 'forbearance' (tolerance and help) on mortgages.
This means they all should offer those struggling a three-month 'holiday', allowing customers a temporary break from having to make mortgage payments during this difficult time.


Finding Work
If you're self employed, work in construction, are not sick and looking for work, you should create a professional profile on The Square. When you create your free profile you get instantly matched to relevant jobs near you and can apply directly with the employer. If there's not much near you right now, we'll notify as soon as new jobs come up. You can register to create your free profile here.