A client contacted Govan Law Centre. He is a married father of 3 children. He is self-employed and his wife does not work. His work had completely ceased due to Covid-19 and they were experiencing extreme financial hardship, to the point that they were struggling to pay for food.
This was a particular issue as the client’s son has a chronic medical condition. He was aware of the Self-employment Income Support Scheme but this help will not be available until June 2020.
The client had made an application for Universal Credit (UC) and was awaiting a telephone ID Verification appointment later that day. He was advised to ensure that he requested an Advance Payment. This can be up to 100% of your estimated UC award. An advance is a loan but it is paid immediately so that you do not have to wait for your first payment.
During the telephone call, it was also identified that the client’s wife can claim Carer’s Allowance for their son who receives Child Disability Living Allowance (DLA). This entitlement will continue when the client returns to self-employment.
The claim can be made entirely online and payment is usually expected within 2 weeks. The client’s wife will receive Carer’s Allowance of £66.15 per week and their Universal Credit award will also be increased by £160 per month. This will create a financial gain of £3439.80 over a period of 12 months.
