Self Employed - Signed off Sick.

larmy16

Hi I am self employed doing physical work and have been having a lot of trouble with my back. I was signed off for two weeks last year but just used my savings to get over the glitch.

At the weekend the problem returned and I could barely move - spent the entire weekend in tears. Anyway due to weather I could only get to see doc on Tuesday. She diagnosed Sacroiliitis and told me to refrain from work for two weeks. I was also given pain killers which are making me sick to the stomach and constipated, but that's another story.

So that is two weeks with no income, rent to be paid, bills etc. At this stage I don't know if the problem will continue.

Am I entitled to claim for the time I cannot work? My son lives with me but he does not earn a lot but I expect he would have to contribute to rent, which he does anyway.

Can anyone advise. I have about a hundred quid left now without breaking into my ISA which I really don't want to do. Any advice most appreciated.

alwaysonthego_2

You will have to claim income based Employment and support allowance.

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/index/life/benefits/benefits_for_people_who_are_sick_or_disabled.htm#employment_and_support_allowance