Author: psimonparsons

National Apprenticeship Week 2022 set for 7th to 13th February 2022

National Apprenticeship Week aims to highlight the exceptional work being done by employers and apprentices across the country. National Apprenticeship Week 2022 will take place from 7th to 13th February 2022It provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate apprenticeships and bring the whole apprenticeship community togetherThe Week will shine a light on the positive differences that … Continue reading National Apprenticeship Week 2022 set for 7th to 13th February 2022 →

No, we’re not replacing cash with ‘Britcoin’

“There’s been some coverage over the weekend about the UK’s plan for a digital currency (Britcoin?!) so I thought I would take a moment to explain exactly what we’re doing to ensure we remain at the cutting edge of technology while also protecting access to cash”. See the Chancellors article on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/embed/feed/update/urn:li:share:6825440508035387392 PAYadvice.UK 26/7/2021

Simplified tax reporting for self-employed and small businesses

Reforms to the tax system that will make it easier for small businesses to fill out their returns have been announced by the government 20th July 2021. Self-employed and small businesses are set to benefit from simpler tax reporting ruleNew measures to clamp down on promoters of tax avoidance, including supporting taxpayers to steer clear … Continue reading Simplified tax reporting for self-employed and small businesses →

Increasing the normal minimum pension age: consultation response

In its response to the consultation on how to implement the normal minimum pension age increase and the proposed protections framework, the government will legislate in the Finance Bill to increase the normal minimum pension age from 55 to 57 on 6th April 2028. This is the age at which most members of registered pension … Continue reading Increasing the normal minimum pension age: consultation response →

£375 million scheme to drive investment in innovative firms of the future opens for applications

£375 million Future Fund: Breakthrough opens for applications to help high-growth, R&D intensive companies bring game-changing technologies to marketThe government will co-invest with private investors to help scale-up innovations across UK industries including life sciences and clean technology – driving economy and creating jobsChancellor Rishi Sunak will convene a landmark Treasury Connect conference in London … Continue reading £375 million scheme to drive investment in innovative firms of the future opens for applications →

Action required – upcoming deadline for furloughing employees and the latest on SEISS

Dear Payadvice.UK , I’m writing to you with the latest information about the financial support schemes available to help your clients, as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes the latest on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) and upcoming changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS). To find out what … Continue reading Action required – upcoming deadline for furloughing employees and the latest on SEISS →

A new way forward for workplace pensions

A new type of pension scheme, with the potential to provide better retirement outcomes and stability, moves a step closer. The new, Collective Defined Contribution (CDC) schemes, will offer savers an income in retirement and also ensure that costs are predictable for employers. They work by both employers and employees contributing to a collective fund, … Continue reading A new way forward for workplace pensions →

Cleaners targeted to check their wages

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are targeting contact with those employed in the cleaning sector making them aware of their employers National Minimum Wage obligations. ‘Are you, or someone you know, working in the cleaning sector on the National Minimum Wage?’ The HMRC are highlighting that ‘Unpaid working hours and workers having to pay for … Continue reading Cleaners targeted to check their wages →

Skills training boosted

Measures to boost the nation’s skills, level up opportunities and get more people into better paid jobs have been announced. The measures come after Prime Minister Johnson delivered the levelling up speech, underling the need to escalate the value of practical and vocational education through the Lifetime Skills Guarantee. The Government’s Skills Bootcamp training programmes … Continue reading Skills training boosted →

Job Retention Scheme 15th July updates

The HMRC have added further updates to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) on Thursday 15th July 2021. The main changes are removal of claim periods ending on or before 30th June 2021, details of the new August taper added to the callout boxes and other parts of the guidance, the addition of taper examples … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme 15th July updates →

HMRC Agent Update 86 has been published

Dear PAYadvice.UK, Agent Update: issue 86 is now available and contains the latest guidance and information for tax agents and advisers. This edition of Agent Update includes: Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme VAT reverse chargeon-line print and post for VAT registrationsCorporate Interest Restriction. Agent Update: issue 86 Just a reminder that Agent Update is now produced … Continue reading HMRC Agent Update 86 has been published →

HMRC’s performance during a unique year

PSP (c)2019 HMRC have issued the following news story (13th July 2021) relating to the departments performance. “Published 13 July 2021 Today we have published HMRC’s quarter 4 performance update for 2020 to 2021 and our regular monthly customer service and complaints update covering March 2021. These figures are subject to change until the final … Continue reading HMRC’s performance during a unique year →

6,150 investigations of furlough fraud underway

In a parliamentary response to a question from the DUPs Mr Gregory Campbell asking for information on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), the Treasury Minister Jesse Norman has confirmed that 1.3 million UK employers have used the furlough scheme to protect jobs. He also confirmed that HMRC have opened 6,150 inquiries into suspected overpayments … Continue reading 6,150 investigations of furlough fraud underway →

Insecure work

Special edition of the TUC’s Jobs and recovery monitor According to the TUC, The coronavirus pandemic has exposed the reality of insecure work in the UK. Care workers, delivery drivers and shopworkers played a crucial role in keeping society going. Meanwhile, in sectors like hospitality many insecure workers often found themselves without work. This TUC … Continue reading Insecure work →

Higher GCSE grades linked to lifetime earnings boost

New research shows the link between GCSE attainment and earnings over a person's lifetime. Those who perform just one GCSE grade better than their counterparts across nine subjects have been shown to earn on average over £200,000 more throughout their lives. Statisticians and economists at the Department for Education have established a direct link between … Continue reading Higher GCSE grades linked to lifetime earnings boost →

Savers urged to be savvy before shifting savings

Plans to support savers seeking access to their pension pots agave been outlined in a change to ensure people are fully informed before moving their money. Currently, when people want access to their savings, their pension scheme is only required to tell them that free, impartial guidance is available from Pension Wise. New “Stronger Nudge” … Continue reading Savers urged to be savvy before shifting savings →

Government launches campaign encouraging families to Rediscover Summer

The campaign highlights a range of activities and opportunities for families, children and young people such as exploring a local museum or discovering a National Cycling Network TrailFamilies encouraged to get back out and Rediscover Summer after a year of missed opportunities The government’s Rediscover Summer campaign has launched to help inspire families to get … Continue reading Government launches campaign encouraging families to Rediscover Summer →

Summer job? Check: your hourly rate, any deductions or unpaid time.

Last year, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) helped more than 150,000 workers who were paid under the minimum wage and is reminding seasonal summer staff to check their pay. HMRC are reminding Students and seasonal staff to check that they are being paid at least the National Minimum Wage (NMW). All workers are legally entitled … Continue reading Summer job? Check: your hourly rate, any deductions or unpaid time. →

Plan for Jobs one year on: More than a third of the working population supported through the pandemic

More than a third of the working population have been supported since the coronavirus pandemic began, according to figures released one year on from the announcement of the government’s landmark Plan for Jobs. latest figures show the UK Government supported over 14.5 million jobs and individuals since pandemic began - more than a third of … Continue reading Plan for Jobs one year on: More than a third of the working population supported through the pandemic →

Extended Loss Carry Back

Extended Loss Carry Back – help for businesses The Extended Loss Carry Back measure announced at Budget 2021 allows businesses to make claims to carry back losses for a further two years than current rules allow. This temporary extension applies for losses in accounting periods ending between 1st A‌pr‌il 2020 and 31st M‌ar‌c‌h 20‌‌‌22. Claims … Continue reading Extended Loss Carry Back →

Job Retention Scheme July update

Submit your CJRS claims for June If you haven’t submitted your June claim, employers must do so by We‌dn‌esd‌ay 14th J‌ul‌y. For June employers can claim 80% of their furloughed employees’ usual wages (based on an historic snapshot point) for the hours not worked, up to a cap of £2,500 per month. What you or … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme July update →

Self-isolation to be eased – Step 4

From 16th August 2021, double jabbed individuals and under 18s will no longer need to self-isolate if they are identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19 As part of step 4 of the COVID-19 roadmap, double vaccinated people will no longer be legally required to self-isolate if they are identified as a close … Continue reading Self-isolation to be eased – Step 4 →

Covid loans data reveals £80 billion support

Businesses were supported through the pandemic with nearly £80 billion of emergency government-backed loans, final figures published by HM Treasury 6th July 2021 reveal. Businesses across the UK have received almost £80 billion worth of emergency government-backed loans during the Covid crisisOver 1.6 million loans – including Bounce Back Loans and Coronavirus Business Interruption Loans … Continue reading Covid loans data reveals £80 billion support →

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) 5th grant

Claiming the fifth SEISS grant  The Self Employed will be able to make claims for the fifth SEISS grant when the online claims service opens in late J‌ul‌y. From mid-J‌ul‌y, HMRC will be contacting those who may be eligible to let them know their personal claim date. This will be the earliest date they can … Continue reading Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) 5th grant →

Job Retention Scheme updates 1st July 2021

Only one update to the guidance this past week - employees will be able to view the claims made by their employer for the claim periods from Dec 2020 to Apr 2021 on 29th July 2021 Page titleChangesCheck if your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (Employee Page)To include: Claim periods from December … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme updates 1st July 2021 →

UK secures the rights of millions of EU citizens

There were 6 million applications to the EU Settlement Scheme by 30th June 2021, securing EU citizens’ rights in the UK. Statistics released Friday 2nd July 2021, show there were 6.02 million applications made to the scheme by 30th June, with 5.1 million grants of status. There have been more than 5.3 million applications from … Continue reading UK secures the rights of millions of EU citizens →

440,000 tax credits customers still to renew claims

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding 440,000 tax credits customers they have one month left to renew their tax credits claims ahead of the 31st July 2021 deadline. More than 2.5 million annual tax credits review packs were posted to customers between late April and early June. Customers will have either received an ‘auto-renewal’ … Continue reading 440,000 tax credits customers still to renew claims →

Job Retention Scheme numbers continue to shrink

Some highlights from the statistics CJRS has supported a total of 11.6 million jobs across all claims submitted to HMRCby 14th June 2021the number of employments on furlough has decreased by 1.2 million from 30th April to 2.4 million on furlough at 31st May 2021, down from 3.5 million on 30th April. Numbers on CJRS … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme numbers continue to shrink →

EU Settlement date has passed – what are the options

If you have missed the deadline, see if you can make a late application. Click on the graphic above. The deadline for applying for most people was 30 June 2021. You can still apply if that deadline did not apply to you, or you have ‘reasonable grounds’ for not applying by the deadline. If you’re applying … Continue reading EU Settlement date has passed – what are the options →

‘Employers must do more to address flexible working inequality’ says CIPD, as new analysis highlights ‘flexible working notspots’ across the UK

The CIPD is warning of the risks of potentially creating a two-tier workforce after its analysis of official data found the use of different flexible working arrangements is unequal across the UK – with some areas exposed as 'flexible working notspots'. Using data from the ONS Labour Force Survey, the CIPD has ranked UK nations … Continue reading ‘Employers must do more to address flexible working inequality’ says CIPD, as new analysis highlights ‘flexible working notspots’ across the UK →

Right to Work Checklist changed 1st July 2021

Not before but on 1st July with little to no preparation time for U.K. employers, the Home Office have issued a revised Right To Work checklist for employers. Revised guidance for the changes required from 1st July were only issued late on Friday 18th June 2021 with employers only having less than 13 days to … Continue reading Right to Work Checklist changed 1st July 2021 →

Guernsey delay introduction of new Secondary Pension to 2023

The States of Guernsey Committee for Employment & Social Security is seeking to reassure employers and pension providers that they will be given sufficient time to prepare for the incoming Secondary Pensions legislation. The original aim was for the legislation, which is currently being drafted, to come into effect from January 2022, but the Committee … Continue reading Guernsey delay introduction of new Secondary Pension to 2023 →

New subsidy system to supports UK jobs and businesses

Businesses across the UK will be able to benefit from financial support due to new subsidy control systems after leaving the EU. New UK-wide subsidy control system to provide quicker and more flexible support to UK businesses following the departure from the EUdecisions previously subject to approval by EU to be decided in the UKdevolved … Continue reading New subsidy system to supports UK jobs and businesses →

Motorists warned of websites charging a premium for free DVLA services on GOV.UK

DVLA has been contacted more than 1,200 times since January 2020 by customers who have paid more for services than they need to by using unaffiliated websites. DVLA is urging motorists to beware of websites that charge a premium for DVLA online services that are cheaper or free on GOV.UK. The agency is reminding motorists … Continue reading Motorists warned of websites charging a premium for free DVLA services on GOV.UK →

Tax refund company complaints increase

The Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG) is concerned that some people who have used a tax refund company to get a PPI (payment protection insurance) or working from home tax refund are now discovering that unconnected tax refunds are also going to the refund company, with further fees being deducted. Deed of assignment! People … Continue reading Tax refund company complaints increase →

New measures to help vulnerable people in problem debt

The government legislate increases to the number of people eligible for Debt Relief orders (DROs). DROs apply to England and Wales only (personal insolvency is devolved to Scotland and Northern Ireland.) New monetary eligibility limits for those eligible for Debt Relief Orders came into effect Tuesday 29th June 2021. More people will be able to … Continue reading New measures to help vulnerable people in problem debt →

Almost 800,000 tax relief claims for working from home

Employees who have worked from home during the pandemic but are now returning to offices can still claim tax relief on household expenses for this tax year. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed that since April, almost 800,000 employees working from home during the pandemic, have claimed tax relief on household related costs. The … Continue reading Almost 800,000 tax relief claims for working from home →

EU adopts ‘adequacy’ decisions allowing data to continue flowing freely to the UK

The European Union (EU) has formally recognised the UK’s high data protection standards after more than a year of constructive talksThis will allow the continued seamless flow of personal data from the EU to the UK Personal data can continue to flow freely between Europe and the UK following agreement by the European Union to … Continue reading EU adopts ‘adequacy’ decisions allowing data to continue flowing freely to the UK →

Chancellor backs grassroots football as Euro 2020 fever sweeps the UK

Chancellor Rishi Sunak visited a new government-funded sports facility in West London this week as Euro 2020 enters the knock-out stages£25 million of new funding being delivered for grassroots football – enough to fund 700 new pitchesSupport builds on the £600 million provided to sports clubs through the government’s Sport Recovery Package and Winter Survival … Continue reading Chancellor backs grassroots football as Euro 2020 fever sweeps the UK →

Commemorative coin marking Prince Philip’s ‘life well lived’ revealed

Chancellor unveils new £5 coin commemorating the life of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.Coin presented on Armed Forces Day 2021, recognising the Duke’s years of naval service and support for Her Majesty The Queen.Design features original portrait of the Duke and will be struck by the Royal Mint. Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveils new … Continue reading Commemorative coin marking Prince Philip’s ‘life well lived’ revealed →

Changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from July 2021

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was extended until 30th September 2021 and the level of grant available to employers under the scheme stayed the same until 30 June 2021. Claims must be made by 14th July 2021. Changes to the level of grant from 1st July 2021 From 1st July 2021, the level of grant … Continue reading Changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from July 2021 →

One in 12 key workers do not qualify for statutory sick pay

A third of key workers (33%) say they do not get full sick payA quarter of key workers (24%) say they get only £96pw statutory sick payExtending sick pay protection to all workers would cost the same as just 1% of the test and trace budget Analysis published by the TUC shows that one in … Continue reading One in 12 key workers do not qualify for statutory sick pay →

Let footie fans work flexibly to watch Euro 2020

As Euro 2020 approaches its last games, the TUC has published advice for bosses whose staff want to watch games during their normal working hours. The TUC suggests that bosses:   · talk to their employees in advance about arrangements for key games · arrange for their staff to watch the game somewhere on the company’s … Continue reading Let footie fans work flexibly to watch Euro 2020 →

How are you managing childcare provisions and support?

The TUC working in collaboration with Mother Pukka, would like to hear from parents about childcare and the upcoming summer holidays. The pandemic has had a significant impact on parents and the childcare sector. With the six weeks holidays approaching the TUC want to hear from parents about what childcare provision and support is available, … Continue reading How are you managing childcare provisions and support? →

EU, EEA or Swiss citizen in the UK – have you applied for EU settlement? Time is running out!

There are just 7 days until the EU #SettlementScheme deadline of 30th June 2021. Apply TODAY if you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen or their family member (and resident in the UK on 31st December 2020). To continue to receive benefits you need to apply. Apply to the EU Settlement Scheme PAYadvice.UK 25/6/2021

Job Retention Scheme guidance updated 24th June 2021

HMRC have updated the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance on the afternoon of 24th June 2021 for the: withdrawal of the .ods and .xls bulk claim templates, andamalgamation of the bulk claim process for 16+ employees (rather than having a separate process for 16-99 employees and 100+ employees) Page titleChangesClaim for wages through the Coronavirus … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme guidance updated 24th June 2021 →

Updated ID checking guidelines in line with new right to work rules

From 1st July 2021, new rules for right to work checks will apply. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens will need to provide evidence of a lawful immigration status in the UK. In response to these changes, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has updated the ID checking guidelines for: Basic DBS checks, submitted through a … Continue reading Updated ID checking guidelines in line with new right to work rules →

Home Office issues revised Right To Work guidance for 1st July 2021 and onwards

At the eleventh hour, the Home Office have, at last, issued revised guidance (18th June 2021) on the changes required by UK employers in conducting right to work checks on new employees. Employers will need to ensure that their on boarding processes are reviewed and revised. The most significant updates contained in this updated guidance … Continue reading Home Office issues revised Right To Work guidance for 1st July 2021 and onwards →

Returning to work – Flexible season tickets

New national rail flexible season tickets and online season ticket calculator launch. #TheFutureIsFlexible as 2 and 3 day-a-week passengers given control over their commute, with potential savings of hundreds of pounds against daily and season ticketsonline ‘season ticket calculator’ will help passengers find the cheapest option as flexible season tickets go on sale from 21st … Continue reading Returning to work – Flexible season tickets →

TUC research reveals “emerging class divide” in who gets flexible working

Working-class jobs have less access to homeworking, and flexible hours are more likely to be refusedHomeworking is not the only form of flexible working – wider forms of flexible working should be on offer for all workers, says union bodyTUC challenges ministers to ‘make Britain a world leader for flexible working rights’ New polling in … Continue reading TUC research reveals “emerging class divide” in who gets flexible working →

New online tool to help working families make the most of shared parental leave

New online tool will make it easier for expectant parents to access and understand Shared Parental Leave and Payworking families can check their eligibility for the scheme in 5 minutes, check what pay they’d be entitled to, and notify their employer using the toolscheme supports mums aiming to return to work and dads and partners … Continue reading New online tool to help working families make the most of shared parental leave →

HMRC Agent Update 85 has been published

Dear PAYadvice.UK Agent Update: issue 85 is now available and contains the latest guidance and information for tax agents and advisers. This edition of Agent Update includes: Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Postponed VAT AccountingOff Payroll WorkingAgent Talking Points – have your say. Agent Update: issue 85 Just a reminder that Agent Update is now produced … Continue reading HMRC Agent Update 85 has been published →

Earnings and employment from Pay As You Earn Real Time Information, UK: June 2021

The ONS analyses of HMRC RTI data shows a recovery in both employment and wages; Early estimates for May 2021 indicate that the number of payrolled employees rose by 0.5% compared with May 2020, which is a rise of 141,000 employees; the number of payrolled employees is down by 1.9% since February 2020, a fall … Continue reading Earnings and employment from Pay As You Earn Real Time Information, UK: June 2021 →

COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you may need to take

Dear Payadvice.UK , I’m writing to you with the latest information about the financial support schemes available to help your clients, as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes: the 21‌‌ ‌June deadline for joining the online VAT deferral new payment schemethe Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS)a reminder of the 14‌‌ … Continue reading COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you may need to take →

Care homes workers to be fully vaccinated to protect residents

People working in CQC-registered care homes will need to be fully COVID-19 vaccinated with both doses. Decision follows a public consultation with staff, providers, residents and familiesFurther consultation will be launched on whether to extend to other health and social care settings Care home residents will be better protected from death and serious illness, following … Continue reading Care homes workers to be fully vaccinated to protect residents →

CJRS guidance updated 16th June 2021

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance has been further updated on Wednesday 16th June 2021 to include the introduction of tapering from 1st July 2021, and as the claim window for May has closed, so the deadlines for May claims have been changed to the new deadlines for June claims. Page titleChangesAll Pages with a … Continue reading CJRS guidance updated 16th June 2021 →

Final Euros games at Wembley to host larger crowds in extension of Events Research Programme

At least 40,000 fans will be allowed for the final four Euros fixtures at Wembley including the semi-finals and final Wimbledon also to have increasing capacities throughout the Championships, with the Men’s and Women’s Finals on 10th and 11th July being played in front of a full Centre CourtMore sports and cultural events also to … Continue reading Final Euros games at Wembley to host larger crowds in extension of Events Research Programme →

Help towards the cost of children’s summer holiday activities

Tax-Free Childcare – a childcare top-up for working parents – can be used to help pay for accredited holiday clubs, childminders or sports activities. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding working families that they can use Tax-Free Childcare to help pay for their childcare costs over the summer. Tax-Free Childcare – a childcare top-up … Continue reading Help towards the cost of children’s summer holiday activities →

Attitudes towards the future of homeworking

The Office for National Statistics (ONS)@ONS has published new research on homeworking, showing that most people (61%) want to spend at least half of their time working from home post-pandemic. The proportion of working adults who did any work from home in 2020 increased to 37% on average from 27% in 2019 with workers living … Continue reading Attitudes towards the future of homeworking →

Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 10th June 2021

HMRC issued further updates to the Job Retention Scheme guidance last week on the 10th June 2021. Page titleChangesClaim for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention SchemeText update:   If you’ve missed the claim deadline and have a reasonable excuse, you should access the service as normal.  You can submit a request from the page … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 10th June 2021 →

HMRC June 2021 Employer Bulletin

HMRC have issued the June 2021 Employer Bulletin, again, packed full with information. In this month’s edition of the Employer Bulletin there are updates and information on the following: Coronavirus (COVID-19) updates and information Coronavirus: how HMRC will continue to support customers and the economyClaim working from home tax reliefContinued support for businesses: Statutory Sick … Continue reading HMRC June 2021 Employer Bulletin →

Payroll boss in tax avoidance scheme 11-year ban

Leicester payroll services boss banned for orchestrating multi-million pound tax avoidance scheme, while failing to justify £37 million expenditure in 11 months Scott Rooney, of Leicester, was appointed sole director of Magnetic Push Limited in February 2017. The company provided payroll services, trading from a serviced office in Liverpool, and was previously known as The … Continue reading Payroll boss in tax avoidance scheme 11-year ban →

Plans to modernise the trade unions regulator

Government confirms plans to modernise the trade unions regulator to boost transparency and provide reassurance to workers that high standards will be maintainednew enforcement powers and levy mechanism will bring the Certification Officer into line with other regulatorschanges to the regulator, previously approved by Parliament, do not affect unions’ rights to campaign on public policy … Continue reading Plans to modernise the trade unions regulator →

Government to protect workers’ rights and clamp down on workplace abuse with powerful new body

New workers’ watchdog to take over responsibility for tackling modern slavery, enforcing minimum wage, and moreone-stop shop will improve enforcement and ensure employees and businesses know where to go for help on workers’ rightsBusiness Minister Paul Scully: We will take action against big brands that turn a blind eye to abuses A powerful new workers’ … Continue reading Government to protect workers’ rights and clamp down on workplace abuse with powerful new body →

OTS to explore potential for moving the end of the tax year

The Office of Tax Simplification (OTS) is the independent adviser to government on tax simplification, challenging tax complexity to help all users of the tax system; it does not implement changes - these are a matter for government and for Parliament. Friday 4th June 2021 the OTS published a document setting out the scope of … Continue reading OTS to explore potential for moving the end of the tax year →

COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you may need to take

Dear PAYadvice.UK I’m writing to you with the latest information about the financial support schemes available to help your clients, as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes: information about the Self-Employment Income Support Schemea reminder of the 14‌‌‌‌ ‌June deadline for submitting May Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) claimsdetails of changes … Continue reading COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you may need to take →

Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 3rd June 2021

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance has had further updates applied on Thursday 3rd June 2021. Although there are a number of updates, in the main these are to; publish the employer claims for periods from December 2020 to March 2021  remove deadlines prior to 1st May (e.g. periods from 1st November to 30th April, etc.)organise … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 3rd June 2021 →

G7 Agrees Historic Global Tax Agreement

The G7 has agreed (5th June 2021) to back an historic international agreement on global tax reform which delivers on the Chancellor’s promise for big international companies to start paying their fair share. G7 Finance ministers strike seismic agreement on global tax reform meaning the largest multinational tech giants will pay their share of tax … Continue reading G7 Agrees Historic Global Tax Agreement →

Cash boost for apprenticeships launched

Businesses can claim £3000 for each new apprentice they take on. From 1st June 2021, employers of all sizes in England can now apply for extra funding to help them take on new apprentices, in the latest drive to revolutionise the skills and training offer across the country. The boost to the apprenticeship incentive scheme … Continue reading Cash boost for apprenticeships launched →

1.3 million employees moving off furlough in March and April

Furlough numbers have fallen to their lowest level this year, according to official statistics published as the number of people relying on the scheme fell to 3.4 million. 1.3 million fewer employees accessed the furlough scheme in March and April 2021 according to new datathe furlough scheme will remain in place until the end of … Continue reading 1.3 million employees moving off furlough in March and April →

Low Pay and ethnicity – LPC call for evidence

The LPC is seeking evidence on the experiences of low-paid workers from ethnic minority backgrounds. Alongside the usual work of monitoring the minimum wage and recommending next year’s rates, the Government’s 2021 remit letter to the LPC made a new request, not included in recent years. This was to gather evidence specifically on the impacts … Continue reading Low Pay and ethnicity – LPC call for evidence →

Let’s get back to business

Dear PAYadvice Are you re-opening your business, or planning to do so shortly? If you're bringing back your employees part time, you can claim furlough flexibly for them under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. Claims for periods in April are now closed, but if you need … Continue reading Let’s get back to business →

CJRS guidance updates 27th May 2021

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) guidance has been updated Thursday 27th May 2021 to include: The introduction of a new template, enabling employers to upload information in for 16 to 99 employees in a claim.  The change was not as simple as amending the existing template for 100 or more employees - the existing process … Continue reading CJRS guidance updates 27th May 2021 →

TUC – Uber recognition agreement is “just the start”

Commenting on Wednesday 26th May 2021 “landmark” trade union recognition agreement between Uber and the GMB, TUC General Secretary Frances O'Grady said: “Gig economy workers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. This landmark agreement is a huge breakthrough and will give Uber drivers a real voice at work. “The GMB deserve massive credit … Continue reading TUC – Uber recognition agreement is “just the start” →

RTI data and Tax avoidance

Question To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether HMRC uses real time information to close down tax avoidance schemes. Answer Answered on 27 May 2021 HMRC identify new avoidance schemes and the promoters behind those schemes using a range of data and intelligence, including real time information from PAYE systems. HMRC actively monitor the … Continue reading RTI data and Tax avoidance →

New template if claiming for 16 to 99 employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

HMRC have added 27th May 2021 a new section to guidance called 'If you're putting lots of employees on furlough'. A new link has been added for a download of a template for claiming for 16 to 99 employees. If you’re claiming CJRS for 16 to 99 employees on or after 27th May 2021, employers … Continue reading New template if claiming for 16 to 99 employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme →

Employers eligible for £1000 cash boost for every T Level student placement

Employers will be able to claim a £1,000 cash boost for every T Level student they host on a high-quality industry placement, as part of a new incentive scheme launched 27th May 2021. The new technical qualifications - co-created with over 250 employers including Fujitsu and Amazon – are equivalent to three A Levels and … Continue reading Employers eligible for £1000 cash boost for every T Level student placement →

New figures reveal victims lost over £63m to investment fraud scams on social media

Figures released by the City of London Police show criminals continue to use popular social media apps to advertise investment scams and contact potential victims. Over £63m was lost nationally by victims of investment fraud who referred to a social media platform in their report to Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime. … Continue reading New figures reveal victims lost over £63m to investment fraud scams on social media →

Consultation launched to waive visa fees for non-UK military personnel

Service personnel from non-UK nations could be offered indefinite leave to remain in the UK for free under a new public consultation launched today by Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and Home Secretary Priti Patel. Service personnel from non-UK nations who have served in the British Armed Forces could be offered indefinite leave to remain in … Continue reading Consultation launched to waive visa fees for non-UK military personnel →

DWP and Google join forces to grow jobseekers’ digital skills

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has partnered with Google to provide 9,000 jobseekers across the UK with scholarships to gain a Google Career Certificate. The scholarship will let jobseekers access courses to grow the necessary skills for a career in technology and IT, with Universal Credit claimants being referred to the scholarships by … Continue reading DWP and Google join forces to grow jobseekers’ digital skills →

JETS job scheme relaunching 100,000 careers

Around 100,000 people who lost jobs in the pandemic are on the road back to work due to a government programme providing targeted support to relaunch their careers. On average, nearly 500 jobseekers have started on the £238 million JETS – Job Entry Targeted Support – scheme over the last seven months. And just under … Continue reading JETS job scheme relaunching 100,000 careers →

Government secures refund rights for McAfee customers

Following CMA action, McAfee, a leading supplier of anti-virus software, has extended its refund rights for all customers whose contracts have auto-renewed. The changes secured by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) as part of its investigation into the anti-virus software sector include: McAfee ensuring that customers whose contract auto-renews for another year will be able to … Continue reading Government secures refund rights for McAfee customers →

TUC – employers “massively under-reporting” Covid work-related deaths

The number of people who have died from exposure to Covid at work is being “massively under-reported” by employers, according to a TUC report published today Sunday 23rd May 2021. Employers claim just 2.5% of working-age Covid deaths are from exposure to Coronavirus at work System for reporting workplace deaths and infections is “letting bad bosses off … Continue reading TUC – employers “massively under-reporting” Covid work-related deaths →

CJRS guidance updates 20th May 2021, and changes for July, August and September 2021.

Only minor changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) guidance on 22nd May 2021. Page titleChangeAll Pages with a callout boxClaims for furlough days in May 2021 must be made by 14th June 2021.  Submit your CJRS claims for May CJRS claims for periods in May can be submitted now, and ‌‌must be made … Continue reading CJRS guidance updates 20th May 2021, and changes for July, August and September 2021. →

Statutory Payments from the deemed employees intermediaries

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have published new guidance on Monday 24th May 2021 which explains how intermediaries can calculate statutory payments for their workers where the off-payroll working rules (IR35) apply. Some payroll software and service solutions may have incorporated automated calculations to facilitate automated statutory payment calculations whereas others may require manual adjustments. … Continue reading Statutory Payments from the deemed employees intermediaries →

New format NINOs? No they’re Temporary Reference Numbers (TRNs) – do not use!

There have been a number of questions circulating about new format National Insurance Numbers identified as such on letters to individuals from HM Revenue and Customs and also on P2 tax code notifications to individuals. These ‘new numbers’ are in a different format to the traditional NINO. Have NINOs changed? Should employers use these new … Continue reading New format NINOs? No they’re Temporary Reference Numbers (TRNs) – do not use! →

Employers: Your business might have changed, but your workplace pension duties haven’t.

The Pensions Regulator is reminding employers that while the workplace has changed due to the pandemic, their workplace pensions duties have not. All employers have a legal duty to automatically enrol eligible staff into a workplace pension and pay in the correct contributions for them. While these are uncertain times for all employers, they must … Continue reading Employers: Your business might have changed, but your workplace pension duties haven’t. →

BME unemployment is rising

The unemployment rate for Black and minority ethnic (BME) workers has risen at three times the speed of the unemployment rate for white workers, according to TUC analysis of new ONS employment figures published Tuesday 18th May 2021. TUC analysis of the ONS figures show BME unemployment rate has increased by 41% to 8.9% over … Continue reading BME unemployment is rising →

Supply chain due diligence to assure labour supply chains

HMRC have issued guidance (13th May 2021) to both and help warn business to be aware of risks within Labour supply chains. Why assure the labour supply chain Failing to take reasonable action to make sure that the supply of labour is legitimate can lead to significant legal, financial and reputational risks, liability for unpaid … Continue reading Supply chain due diligence to assure labour supply chains →

Simpler information to transform pension understanding for savers

Savers will have a much clearer picture of their pension pots from next year, thanks to government plans to introduce simpler annual statements. Under new regulations to be outlined this week, the government will require pension schemes to issue their members two-page documents highlighting in simple terms key information including the size of the saver’s … Continue reading Simpler information to transform pension understanding for savers →

COVID-19 Charter for holidaymakers launched

Charter provides clear information for passengers outlining their rights and responsibilities when travelling this summer. Passenger COVID-19 Charter published as people allowed to begin travelling again internationally for leisurecharter details how holidaymakers can travel safely, including information on passenger rights and responsibilities, what to do if things go wrong and how to stay safe abroadAviation … Continue reading COVID-19 Charter for holidaymakers launched →

Apply to the EU Settlement Scheme

EU, EEA or Swiss citizens, and family members resident in the UK by 31st December 2020, now have less than 50 days to apply to the EU #SettlementScheme to continue to reside, work, and access benefits in the UK after 30th June 2021. The EEA includes the EU countries and also Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. … Continue reading Apply to the EU Settlement Scheme →

Work from Home Day: new laws needed to make flexible working patterns available for all workers after pandemic – TUC

Prime minister signals that the work from home order will be lifted on 21 JuneRise of homeworking for office workers must not lead to “new inequalities”, warns TUCLack of employment bill in Queen’s Speech a ‘colossal failure’ to address changed expectations of flexibility at work following the pandemic Friday 14th May 2021 is the 16th … Continue reading Work from Home Day: new laws needed to make flexible working patterns available for all workers after pandemic – TUC →

Non-compliance with basic employment rights in the labour market highlights the need for reform – TUC

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) have published a research paper outlining an action plan to reform labour market enforcement. TUC action plan to reform labour market enforcement They claim that ‘significant reforms are needed to make sure that all workers (and especially low paid, insecure workers) have a viable route to enforce their basic workplace … Continue reading Non-compliance with basic employment rights in the labour market highlights the need for reform – TUC →

Working from home? Claim tax relief for 2021 to 2022 tax year

More than half a million people have claimed the working from home tax relief this tax year and are already benefitting. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is accepting tax relief claims for working from home due to coronavirus during 2021 to 2022. More than 550,000 employed workers have already claimed and are benefitting from the … Continue reading Working from home? Claim tax relief for 2021 to 2022 tax year →