Can taxi drivers get unemployment benefits?

The COVID-19 outbreak has seen taxi ridership slump in 2020, leaving many taxi drivers asking what unemployment benefits they’re entitled to.

As one of the UK’s leading insurers for private hire taxis, we’re here to help provide drivers with simple and helpful answers.

COVID-19

If you’re unsure about the financial help you can claim as a taxi driver, use the Government’s online support finder to see what you could be eligible for here.

Previously the Government announced a support scheme for the self-employed. This allowed those eligible to claim a taxable grant worth 80% of your net earnings, up to a maximum of £2,500 per month for three months. The scheme was extended during August 2020 changing from 80% to 70% of your average profits, up to a total of £6,570.

Most recently, on 24th September 2020, it was announced that the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) has been extended to cover six months worth of trading from November 2020 to April 2021.

The grant will be limited to self-employed individuals who are currently eligible for the SEISS and actively continuing to trade but are facing reduced demand due to COVID-19.

The government’s website states:

“Grants will be paid in two lump sum instalments each covering a three-month period. The first grant will cover 3 months’ worth of profits from the start of November until the end of January. It will be worth 20% of average monthly profits and will be capped at £1,875 in total.”

If you’re finding yourself in debt, click here for some helpful advice designed to help private hire drivers and self-employed people.