Financial Scheme information
COVID-19 financial support for businesses – Find out what financial support you can get for your business.
Council Tax Support
If you’ve made a claim for Universal Credit and told the DWP that you have a Council Tax liability, they will send your information direct to your district council. This will be processed once they receive confirmation of your Universal Credit award directly from DWP.
If you have not claimed Universal Credit and need help paying Council Tax, contact your district council to claim Council Tax Support. And if you are still struggling to pay after your local district council has awarded this, apply to your district council for further help.
VAT Deferral – The VAT deferral new payment scheme has now closed.
Find out about VAT payments deferred between 20 March and 30 June 2020.
If you cannot pay your tax bill on time
Contact HMRC to discuss support available. HMRC may suggest you pay what you owe in instalments. This is called a Time to Pay arrangement. You can find out more here
Other Finance Options
Several private lenders are also making funds available to the self-employed who have been impacted by COVID-19, including £2 billion from Lloyds Banking Group and £5 billion from NatWest. A range of finance can also be accessed through the government-owned British Business Bank.
Information and Assistance
Free information, support and advice for those needing help during Coronavirus
Heart of the South West Growth Hub
You can also find free support, advice and information on sources of finance and help with homeworking through your local Heart of the South West Growth Hub.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): what to do if you’re self-employed and getting less work or no work
Financial support for businesses during coronavirus (COVID-19) – Find out what financial support you can get for your business
HMRC Covid Helpline
HMRC have additional helplines, including one set up to support businesses concerned about not being able to pay their tax due to coronavirus on 0800 0159 559. You can find more details about contacting HMRC online.
Mind
The charity Mind provide advice on how to support your mental wellbeing during this difficult period. The Mind website includes practical advice on coping with staying at home and updates on how the new coronavirus laws could affect your rights. There is also useful information for any young person who is currently struggling.
Step Change
Contact the debt charity Step Change to get expert debt advice and fee-free debt management to help you tackle your debts. You can find out more on their website or phone 0800 138 1111