Self Employed - Do I have to work??

Musical81

I am a self employed mechanic (small independent sole trader). Garages haven't been closed down but I have a vulnerable wife and child and even though I've put measures in place, I'd personally rather be at home making sure they are safe. If I voluntarily close, can I still make a claim? In real terms, I would be amazed if there was enough work to cover the outgoings with everybody supposedly staying at home. 

selina2000

Musical81 said:

I am a self employed mechanic (small independent sole trader). Garages haven't been closed down but I have a vulnerable wife and child and even though I've put measures in place, I'd personally rather be at home making sure they are safe. If I voluntarily close, can I still make a claim? In real terms, I would be amazed if there was enough work to cover the outgoings with everybody supposedly staying at home. 

Who are you planning to claim against.

7Phil

We are waiting to see what measures are being announced to protect the incomes of self-employed people.

As they have not been issued we also cannot be sure how any such measures will be interpreted in case a voluntary decision to not work (even if forced to care for family) versus closing because you have no work.

Only thing I recommend is to look after your family first, they are number one.

sharpe106

When they make an announcement which they probably will about self-employed people and if the criteria is similar to the current one then yes probably can. However it is designed to be a safety net to help the economy and business survive, not to pay people who would rather be at home.