The government announced some time ago that self-employed people would be able to apply for a further Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) grant during August, but the exact date was not made clear until now.

HMRC CEO Jim Harra made an appearance on the Martin Lewis Money Show at the start of the month and one of the things he clarified was precisely when sole traders and other self-employed business owners would be able to start applying for these second COVID-19 support grants. The scheme will be officially opening for applications on 17th August.

This news came in response to a question submitted by one of the programme’s viewers, which Lewis then asked Harra. According to Wales Online, as well as confirming when those eligible for the second SEISS payment will be able to claim it, Harra also added that:

“We will write to people and ask them to make their claim when we’re ready to receive it. That should make it so there’s enough time for people to make their claim and receive their second grant before the end of August.”

This confirmation will be welcomed by many, but there has been no announcement about whether an agent such as an accountant for sole traders in South Yorkshire or anywhere else will be able to complete the applications. That was not possible with the first SEISS grant and at the moment it seems likely that this will be the case again, but those eligible can get application advice from an accountant.