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self employed..what to claim

User
Posted 12 Jun 2025 at 16:44

My husband is having prostate surgery next month. He is self employed and due to his job he's been advised to have about 12 weeks off.

I understand he can't claim SSP and can apply for ESA. Does anyone know when he should apply or does he have to wait until after the op? Also are there any other benefits or financial support? I'm aware these are probably dependent on savings etc.

Many thanks

User
Posted 14 Jun 2025 at 07:36

Hi Willowtree.

I have no experience of ESA but I'm sure others on here may have. So I thought I'd bump your conversation.

There's little on ESA on the forum.

It appears this link is recommended and may be of help to you.

https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/impacts-of-cancer/benefits-and-financial-support/benefits-and-your-rights

Good luck👍

User
Posted 16 Jun 2025 at 23:37

Hi Willowtree 

I think your husband can apply for ESA once he’s off work and may need a fit note from the doctor, it would be with asking if this can be issued by the hospital before he’s discharged. 

Does he have any insurance policies that have a critical illness element? If so then he may well be eligible for a claim. 

User
Posted 17 Jun 2025 at 07:51

Thank you. Unfortunately he doesn't have any medical insurance. He is getting advice from his accountant though so hopefully they will know more than us!

User
Posted 17 Jun 2025 at 17:46

I'm self employed and filled in all the forms. They calculated I could claim £81 a week but due to savings etc they would deduct £82 per week!!! Not bad after paying into the system for the last 40+years. I truly hope you get a better outcome. At times like this it does make you wonder if being self employed is the best thing, it just adds another thing to worry about. Wishing your husband all the best for a speedy recovery, stay strong.

 
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