Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

​If you are a zero hours worker who is an employee, you should first check your contract to see whether you are eligible for your employer's sick pay scheme. An occupational sick pay scheme cannot pay less than Statutory Sick Pay (SSP).

​To qualify for SSP you must: 

• be classed as an employee and have done some work for your employer.
• earn an average of at least £120 per week.

From 28 September, if you are told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, you may be entitled to a support payment of £500, on top of any SSP or benefits you receive. ​

SSP is usually payable from day 4 of your absence from work. However, if you are off-sick because of Covid-19, then SSP is payable from Day 1 of your absence. You can be off-sick because of Covid-19 if:

• You have tested positive for Covid-19;
• You have Covid-19 symptoms (fever, new continuous cough or a loss of or change in your sense of smell or tase;
• If you have to self-isolate because someone in your household has been tested positive for Covid-19 or has symptoms;
• You've been told to shield by the NHS because of an underlying health condition;
• You've been told to self-isolate by a doctor, NHS 111 or NHS Test and Trace.

The level of SSP may not be enough to make up for any pay lost due to being off work. If this is the case, you can also apply for Universal Credit.

​You will not qualify if you:

• have received the maximum amount of Statutory Sick Pay (28 weeks).
• are receiving Statutory Maternity Pay.
• are self-isolating because you've returned from holiday

UNABLE TO CLAIM SICK PAY?

If you are unable to claim Statutory Sick Pay and you are below the State Pension age, you may be able to claim Employment and Support Allowance while you are shielding or self-isolating due to Covid-19. You will need to provide evidence that you are self-isolating or shielding, in the form of a confirmation from your doctor, NHS 111 or NHS Test and Trace.

If you are unable to claim Statutory Sick Pay and you have reached the State Pension age, you may be able to claim Pensions Credit. The amount you receive will depend on your income, including your State Pension, other pensions you receive, any savings over £10,000, any other benefits and any other earnings.