Sick pay for being self employed?

H

Harper

Member
I’m currently self-employed (a sole trader), but I’ve recently fallen ill and will be unable to work for the next couple of months. Because I don't have an employer, I know I'm not eligible for standard Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), and I'm starting to get worried about keeping up with my bills. I've been looking into what state support is actually available for self-employed people.
 
As a sole trader, you can apply for New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) if you have a qualifying National Insurance record. You can also claim Universal Credit.
 
You can claim Universal Credit, which is means-tested, to help cover your rent and everyday living costs while you are unable to work.
 
Self-employed workers cannot claim Statutory Sick Pay, but two main state support options exist:
  • New Style ESA: Paid if you have enough National Insurance contributions in the past 2-3 years.
  • Universal Credit: A means-tested benefit if your household income is low and savings are under £16,000.
 
If you are Self-employed, you are not eligible for Sick Pay. It is only given by the employers to their employee as it is a part of the employment contract. If your injury makes you incapacitated to work, you can claim the New Style' Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), provided you contributed enough for Class 2 National Insurance over the last 2 tax assessment years.
 
The first piece of bad news: Statutory Sick Pay isn't available for people who are self-employed, it's for those who are on payroll. But you aren't completely on your own. Find out about New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) from gov.uk or claim Universal Credit for lost income.
 
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