Coronavirus Update
I am already claiming benefits
- If you are claiming Universal Credit (UC) face-to-face appointments have been suspended. You can manage your claim through your online journal and should check your journal regularly for any messages from the DWP.
- If you are currently claiming a sickness benefit such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and some Universal Credit claims, and are waiting for a re-assessment, all face-to-face assessments have been temporarily postponed. You will be contacted by telephone or letter to let you know what will happen next. Your payments should continue until any rearranged assessment.
If you are in work and not claiming benefits
- If you cannot work because of Coronavirus you need to check with your employer if you can receive Statutory Sick Pay.
- If you work on a short term contract or a zero hours contract, you may be entitled to sick pay.
- If you are not eligible to receive sick pay, or you are self-employed, and unable to work because of the Coronavirus, you might be able to apply for Universal Credit.
How to make a new claim to Universal Credit and/or new style Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
Most claims for Universal Credit are made online. Click here for more details about how to apply.
You can apply for ESA online or by telephone. Click here for more details about how to apply. You should get help from day one of any claim.
Don’t delay in making your claim.
If you have Coronavirus you should be treated as having limited capability for work from the start of your claim. You should not need to provide a fit note.
For more advice on what benefits you might be able to claim during the Coronavirus pandemic, including if you are still working but facing a drop in income, go to the entitledto website.
The situation and advice regarding Coronavirus is changing at a fast pace. Please check back here regularly for any changes and click here for further information.