UC and furlough

sabelu

If your furloughed do you give your salary or your 80% income figure 

calcotti

Put the 80% figure. Your actual UC entitlement will be based on what you actually receive each month. UC is calculated each month.

Zero184

New Style ESA:  I've just applied for this, as a self employed person unable to work as of Tue 24 March because of the Government requirement for me to stop working and stay at home. I believe this amounted to being "advised to self isolate", which is one of the criteria that would entitle me to claim ESA, however the Jobcentre agent was dubious and thinks the claim may fail unless someone in the house actually has, or is suspected of having, the virus. Any thoughts on whether the Government directive counts as being "advised to self isolate" for this purpose? Thanks.

Nannytone

The government are asking people to socially distance and not self isolate necessarily. Unless you are at high risk because of an underlying condition, or you have symptoms or live with someone that has symptoms, then government advice is 2 2 socially distance and not self isolate.
ESI is only applicable if you need to self isolate

calcotti

Zero184 said:

New Style ESA:  I've just applied for this, as a self employed person unable to work as of Tue 24 March because of the Government requirement for me to stop working and stay at home. I believe this amounted to being "advised to self isolate", which is one of the criteria that would entitle me to claim ESA, however the Jobcentre agent was dubious and thinks the claim may fail unless someone in the house actually has, or is suspected of having, the virus. Any thoughts on whether the Government directive counts as being "advised to self isolate" for this purpose? Thanks.

I agree with the DWP. Government advice is badly worded but the law allowing people to be treated as sick refers to people who are isolating and I believe this to be different to social distancing and shielding.

If needed look at eligibility for Universal Credit https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/universal-credit/. 

There are online calculators to help you assess entitlement  https://www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators

Be aware that claiming UC will end any Tax Credits, Housing Benefit or other means tested benefits you currently get.

You will be excluded from UC if you have savings over £16,000.

You may also be able to claim Council Tax Reduction from your local council.