Following publication of details of the fifth grant for the Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SIESS) in late July, the online application portal is now open. Claims must be made by 30 September 2021, via GOV.UK, as follows:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-a-grant-through-the-self-employment-income-support-scheme
The grant is available to self-employed individuals whose business profits are impacted by reduced demand due to COVID-19, or who have been temporarily unable to trade due to COVID-19, during the period from 1 May 2021 to 30 September 2021. The application process also requires the declaration that individuals intend to continue to trade and reasonably believe there will be a significant reduction in their trading profits for the tax year.
Further details of the criteria for eligibility, with examples, are available from GOV.UK:
There is now a turnover test which determines the amount of the grant, comparing 2020-21 turnover with that for 2019-20. An alternative approach is available if 2019-20 was not a ‘normal year’:
- If turnover is reduced by 30% or more, the grant will be 80% of three months’ average trading profits, up to £7,500.
- If turnover is reduced by less than 30%, the grant will be 30% of three months’ average trading profits, up to £2,850.
Individuals must make SEISS claims themselves, but we are always happy if requested to discuss providing assistance with the necessary details in order to facilitate an application.