Self employment & illness

Diogenes42

Hi,

As a self employed person, is there any way to claim back money when you are off sick?

Thanks

Alex

Hi @Diogenes42

If you're self-employed, you cannot get Statutory Sick Pay, but you could check if you would qualify for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

I think there are also schemes you can join if you're self-employed (insurance type products) to give you some income if you get sick, but I don't really know if they are worth it.

Diogenes42

Thanks Alex.
I don't qualify for ESA. The reason I ask is that I am often too ill too work & have to cancel on the day. I've also been ill these last 3 weeks with flu. I don't earn much as it is & with illness I essentially lose half a years wage.

Alex

That's a shame. Have you checked for other benefits that you might be able to get?

https://www.turn2us.org.uk/Benefit-guides/Self-employment-and-benefits/What-benefits-can-I-claim#guide-content

You could go through the checker here:
https://www.scope.org.uk/support/disabled-people/benefits/check

Out of curiosity - what do you do?

Diogenes42

I've just checked the benefits calculator & don't qualify for anything. I am a self employed music instructor Alex.

Sam_Alumni

Hi @Diogenes42 I was self employed for years due to my illness, the benefits being that I chose my own working hours, but it meant no sick pay or benefits from being employed.  I didnt find a way around it I'm afraid.  I applied for PIP but was turned down. 

It's really tough, Im sorry I don't have any advice, I just wanted to say I know what you are going through. 

Diogenes42

thanks Sam