Application Process and Support Click to get info
You can make a claim each time you begin a new period of self-isolation and if more than one member of your household is required to self-isolate, each member of your household may make a claim so long as they satisfy the criteria listed above.
A person may make a claim on behalf of another person, but payment will be made to the bank account of the person who is actually entitled to the grant.
If you have no access to the internet and no-one to help you, please ring us on 0208496300 and choose the option for Housing Benefit and we will help you. Please note that this may delay your application as we will still need you to provide some evidence.
To upload evidence, you can take a photo(s) using a mobile phone and upload the photo(s) using a mobile phone.
Is there a time limit for making applications?
Yes, you must make a claim within 28 days of the start of your period of self-isolation. We cannot accept applications after this point. For example, if you have been instructed by NHS Test and Trace from 1 January, you must apply for the Test and Trace Support Payment by 29 January.
Evidence requirements
When you complete the online application you can upload your evidence and submit it along with your form. You can take a photograph of your documents, such as your bank statements, and when the form asks for evidence click ‘browse’ and select the document from your photos.
You can only upload documents that are in JPEG (which most photographs are) or PDF format.
What is the Test and Trace Account ID number and where can I find it?
The NHS Test and Trace Account ID is an 8-character identifier unique to each record. The NHS Test and Trace team will provide you with this information when you are instructed to self-isolate or, if you have been advised to self-isolate via the NHS COVID 19 app, when you have complied with the instructions regarding financial assistance.
I am self-employed: what proof do I need to provide?
Self-employed applicants need to provide evidence of self-assessment tax returns and trading income.
You will need to provide evidence about your income and the type of work that you do. It will be easier for some professions to work from home than others. You will need to evidence that you have lost income as a result of self isolating.
Payments
Payment will be made by BACS transfer and is subject to income tax but will not affect your entitlement to benefit. Her Majesty’s Revenues and Customs will contact you about any tax you may need to pay at a later date.
If you are suffering financial hardship you may wish to contact your bank and exercise a first right of appropriation against the grant – this means that you will tell the bank what the payment is to be used for. Find a template letter through the National Debt Helpline.
Government advice regarding coronavirus can be found on the GOV.UK website.
What do I do if I am refused an award?
If you believe you have been wrongly refused an award we will look at it again although there is no formal right of appeal against the decision. To challenge a decision you must complete a new claim form and choose the option labeled “A follow-up claim following a refusal” option at the bottom of question 2 (Completing this form)
NHS Test and Trace App Click to get info
You can now claim financial support if you have been advised to self-isolate via the NHS Test & Trace app. You must have the latest version of the app installed to do this. Watch the YouTube video which will help you navigate the app.