ESA to self employment - benefits

littlerat

Just need a bit of advice really..

I hope to be coming off ESA (support group currently) within the next 6 months - may be fairly soon, may be a while away, but I'm definitely hoping within 6 months.

I'm looking to go into self employment, I've looked on the directgov and it appears I may be able to get a Back to work credit of £40 a week if working over 16 hours a week and earning minimum wage - but wondering if self employment will count to get it, as I may not be earning in theory minimum wage for a while. I may be applying for some self employed vacancies which would give extra income, also may be looking for any little bits I can do to help money.

I won't be on DLA any more at a guess, but of course I'm still having problems which I doubt will be magically gone!

Is there anything else I'll be able to get even short term to help me make the transition? Or any grants to help me get started (I know about the princes trust ones, but anything else with me being on ESA before?)

Just wanting to know where I'll stand really, if there's any help I may be able to get!

Thanks

Hammyman

You don't have to be earning NMW to get the Return to Work Credit if you're self employed - merely that you work sufficient hours. You will be required to send in proof of trading though. It is £40 per week tax free for a year and isn't declarable as income for the purpose of tax credits and other income related benefits. Mine was paid in weekly.

There used to also be a one off payment of £250 as well.

littlerat

Thanks hammyman - will being registered as self employed count as proof of trading? Or do you have to send in invoices or.. something?