Long Covid - can I claim 3rd SEISS?

Dogmum1

I am a self employed dog walker and have been off sick since beginning of Oct, I have been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Long Covid and have just started claiming ESA, I have no idea when I'll be able to go back to work - will I still be eligible for the 3rd SEISS? 

Jeremy535897

So long as you intend to continue to trade, and meet all the other eligibility criteria, you should qualify:
See https://www.gov.uk/guidance/how-your-trading-conditions-affect-your-eligibility-for-the-self-employment-income-support-scheme

Dogmum1

@Jeremy535897 thank you, it doesn't mention Long Covid at all, only being in isolation so I wasn't sure, I do intend to get back to work at some point, I'm just not sure how long I'll be off for 😞

Jeremy535897

You have been trading but are temporarily unable to do so due to coronavirus (long covid in your case)

Jeremy535897

See https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6219378/more-seiss-doubts#latest

Dogmum1

@Jeremy535897 thanks that really helpful.

NitroBN

Edit: Content deleted due to MSE editorial teams current policy and methods of addressing cyber bullying in their forums is to silence the victims.

Dogmum1

@NitroBN I did wonder whether claiming SEISS would count against ESA, I will definitely get advice before I apply for SEISS, as you said I have no idea if I will be going back to work, but SEISS says you can claim as long as you "intend to continue trading" - very muddy waters! 

calcotti

New style ESA is a contribution based benefit and is not means tested so SEISS doesn't count against it as such. Although SEISS are earnings and you cannot earn more than £140/week while working and claiming ESA you are not actually working so the SEISS doesn't affect the ESA calim.
https://www.rightsnet.org.uk/welfare-rights/news/item/dwp-issues-guidance-on-how-payments-under-cjrs-and-seiss-are-treated-for-purposes-of-benefits-other-than-universal-credit
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/897319/m-13-20.pdf paragraph 16.