Very confused re. childcare

Pmarsh182

Hi. I've looked online about the subject but can't find any info fitting my circumstances. I was Furloughed from March to August. During this time I started hobbies that I realised I could make money from so decided not to return to my employer, and to register as a sole trader instead. My wife is also self employed. Now that schools are closed again I've had to stop doing what I was doing, as my wife's business is more profitable, and less affected by the current lockdown situation, to provide childcare. Is there any help I can get financially? I've not filed any tax returns due to the short duration. 

poppy12345

Universal Credit maybe possible but this will depend on your circumstances. As it's means tested you need to claim as a couple. A claim for UC will end any tax credits you may already be claiming. If you have savings/capital of more than £16,000 you're excluded from claiming. Use a benefits calculator to check entitlement.

Or New style JSA providing you've paid enough of NI contributions in tax years 2018-2019 and 2019-202. It pays £74.35 per week for 26 weeks (over 25's) this can only be claimed if you're not actually working because earnings over £5 per week will reduce your NsJSA £1 for £1.

If you claim both together then the NsJSA will be deducted from any UC entitlement.

Or use a childcare bubble, if your children are under 14. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/making-a-childcare-bubble-with-another-household

mattyprice4004

The above covers it pretty much to a tee - if you're not eligible then you'll have to survive on her income.

sheramber

Can you do any of your work at times when your wife is not  working?