Author: psimonparsons

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 25th February 2021

HMRC have applied further updated (25th February 2021) to the guidance for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: Page titleChangesAllCallout box amended   Claims for furlough days in February 2021 must be made by 15 March 2021  Check if your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (Employee Page)To advise that more information on training is … Continue reading Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 25th February 2021 →

2021/2022 New Starter Checklists available

GOV.UK have published the new adjusted HMRC ‘New Starter Checklist’. Some years ago these were referenced as P46. These have been adjusted to combine the student loan and postgraduate loans information requests into two questions 9 and 10, and incorporate the new Scottish Student Loan Plan 4 which commences collection from pay from 6th April … Continue reading 2021/2022 New Starter Checklists available →

2020Student Loan guidance updated to include Scottish Plan 4 and Off-Payroll working references

Student loan and postgraduate loan repayment guidance for employers has been updated 23rd February 2021. Guidance has been updated to include information if you are operating off-payroll and new Plan type 4. Although this is still the 6th April 2020 edition, so further changes expected. Scottish Plan type 4 Your employee may be liable to … Continue reading 2020Student Loan guidance updated to include Scottish Plan 4 and Off-Payroll working references →

File tax returns now to prevent penalties

Self Assessment taxpayers have less than one week to submit their late tax returns to prevent a £100 penalty. While 10.7 million taxpayers filed their return by 31st January 2021, more than 1.5 million taxpayers missed this deadline and are still to file their tax return. They are accruing interest on unpaid tax liabilities but … Continue reading File tax returns now to prevent penalties →

Roadmap out of lockdown!

The government has published the ‘COVID-19 Response - Spring 2021’, setting out the roadmap out of the current lockdown for England. The Prime Minister, Rt Hon Boris Johnson MP, announced to Parliament on Monday 22nd February, the government’s roadmap to cautiously ease lockdown restrictions in England. It published a four-step roadmap to ease restrictions across … Continue reading Roadmap out of lockdown! →

Gender Pay Gap Reporting deadline extended

Six month suspension to the enforcement of gender pay gap regulations. Due to the impact of Coronavirus (COVID‑19), the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) have announced that employers now have until 5th October 2021 to report their gender pay gap information for the 20/21 reporting year (which uses a snapshot date of 31st March … Continue reading Gender Pay Gap Reporting deadline extended →

Government consultations on non-compete clauses & exclusivity clauses

BEIS have sent reminder that this is final week to respond to the Government consultations on options for reform to non-compete clauses & exclusivity clauses in contracts of employment. Both consultations close this Friday, 26th February. Background: The proposed reforms form part of the government’s plans to build back better, ensuring the UK’s recovery from … Continue reading Government consultations on non-compete clauses & exclusivity clauses →

Parliamentary question – Directors Income Support Scheme response

HM Treasury responded to a question on COVID-19 assistance for Directors on 22nd February 2021 The question: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps he is taking to progress a directors’ income support scheme package for directors of limited companies? The response was made by Treasury minister Jesse Norman: The Government always welcomes … Continue reading Parliamentary question – Directors Income Support Scheme response →

HMRC issue the 2021/2022 further guidance

The HMRC have update their employer guidance CWG2, CWG5 and also the guide to gross-up where employer pay the tax and NICs on expenses and benefits. CWG2 further guide to PAYE and National Insurance HMRC have issued the updated CWG2 for the 2021/2022 tax year (for the tax year which commences from 6th April 2021). … Continue reading HMRC issue the 2021/2022 further guidance →

UK government welcomes the European Commission’s draft data adequacy decisions

Today’s draft decisions follow months of discussions and pave the way for continued free flow of data between the EU and the UKThe UK now urges the EU to fulfil its declared commitment to complete the technical approval process swiftly, so that we have final data adequacy decisions as soon as possibleThis will provide certainty … Continue reading UK government welcomes the European Commission’s draft data adequacy decisions →

More help for Self Assessment taxpayers

HM Revenue and Customs announces Self Assessment taxpayers will not be charged the 5% late payment penalty if pay their tax or set up a payment plan by 1st April 2021. Self Assessment taxpayers will not be charged the 5% late payment penalty as long as they pay the tax due or set up a … Continue reading More help for Self Assessment taxpayers →

COVID-19: Employer support – live webinars

Dear @PAYadvice, Claims under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) are now open for pay periods in February ‌2021. Claims for January are now closed, but if you find you need to make a change because you didn’t claim enough you can do this until 1 ‌March. Make sure you have the latest information by joining the … Continue reading COVID-19: Employer support – live webinars →

Government to publish range of tax consultations and calls for evidence on 23 March

The government will publish a number of tax-related consultations and calls for evidence at the end of March. To allow for more transparency and scrutiny, documents and consultations that would traditionally be published at a Budget will now be published on 23rd March 2021. This is to allowen tax professionals to have an opportunity to … Continue reading Government to publish range of tax consultations and calls for evidence on 23 March →

Shielding and work

The government are extending shielding guidance until the end of March 2021. So some workers and employees will receive a letter instructing them to shield. It also provides guidance and instruction In relation to work; Work You are strongly advised to work from home because the risk of exposure to the virus in your area … Continue reading Shielding and work →

Pension enforcement activity rises protecting savers

New figures published 18th February 2021 demonstrate how The Pensions Regulator (TPR) is continuing to robustly protect savers. The latest compliance and enforcement bulletin which details enforcement activity carried out between October and December 2020, shows TPR’s use of statutory powers has increased by nearly 50% overall from the previous quarter in line with expectations. … Continue reading Pension enforcement activity rises protecting savers →

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 16th February 2021

HMRC have applied further updates (16th February 2021) to the guidance for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: Page titleChangesClaim for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention SchemeTo amend the method of contact for Reasonable ExcuseAsk HMRC not to publish your Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme claim detailsAddition to include line that agents can submit request on … Continue reading Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 16th February 2021 →

Support Payment for those instructed to self-isolate

Those who have been told to self-isolate because of coronavirus (COVID-19) and cannot work from home may be able to get a financial support. England The payment is £500. The claimant must be employed or self-employed and needs to claim within 28 days of the first day of self-isolation. They can only apply for the … Continue reading Support Payment for those instructed to self-isolate →

Isle of Man Budget 2021

No payroll surprises (yet) for the payroll changes from the Isle of Man Budget 2021 held Tuesday 16th February 2022. Income tax remains unchanged In the Isle of Man budget 2021 information, it is stated that the LEL (marked with * below) ‘that these figures will not be announced until after the UK Budget and … Continue reading Isle of Man Budget 2021 →

Off-Payroll working rules – HMRC Talking Points

Dear @PAYadvice, HMRC's regular Talking Points provide information, guidance and tips to help you to understand tax issues.  We have more Talking Points webinars coming up. There are a limited number of spaces, so save your place now. Off-payroll working rules from April 2021: Status Determinations and Disagreements: This webinar explains what Status Determination Statements (SDS) are, … Continue reading Off-Payroll working rules – HMRC Talking Points →

Support extended for renters during pandemic

Renters will continue to be supported during the ongoing national lockdown restrictions, with an extension to the ban on bailiff evictions. Renters protected with ban on bailiff enforced evictions extended until 31st March 2021Exemptions in place for the most serious casesPart of a wider package of support for renters during the pandemic Renters will continue … Continue reading Support extended for renters during pandemic →

Support for small businesses, landlords and leaseholders: government charges up the electric vehicle revolution with £50 million boost

Government announces financial boost to encourage electric vehicle use and launches consultation on improving the charging experience. electric vehicle charging schemes to be opened to small business, leaseholders and those in rented accommodation to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) uptakeworth up to £50 million, the updated schemes will also boost rural areas and the charity sector, … Continue reading Support for small businesses, landlords and leaseholders: government charges up the electric vehicle revolution with £50 million boost →

Tax scammers are mimicking official numbers!

Scammers are using Royal Courts of Justice telephone numbers to demand tax payments. An increasing number of concerned individuals are contacting offices across the Royal Courts of Justice following emails or phone calls by scammers. The scammers allege that payment is owed to HMRC and that warrants for arrest have been issued. Scammers tell individuals … Continue reading Tax scammers are mimicking official numbers! →

Give your loved one a tax break this Valentine’s Day

Married couples and people in civil partnerships could be eligible for Marriage Allowance and reduce their tax by up to £250 each year. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is encouraging married couples and people in civil partnerships to sign up for a tax break this year. Marriage Allowance offers individuals the chance to transfer part … Continue reading Give your loved one a tax break this Valentine’s Day →

Landmark moment for UK pensions as Bill receives Royal Assent

The biggest shake-up of UK pensions for decades was confirmed Thursday 11th February 2021 as the Pension Schemes Bill received Royal Assent. The Bill, now an Act, will bolster protections for savers and further the government’s green agenda by supporting progress towards net zero. Minister for Pensions, Guy Opperman: This is a historic day for … Continue reading Landmark moment for UK pensions as Bill receives Royal Assent →

National Insurance contributions relief for employers who hire veterans

At Spring Budget 2020, the Chancellor announced the introduction of a National Insurance holiday for employers that hire former members of the UK regular armed forces. The holiday will exempt employers from any National Insurance contributions liability on a veteran’s salary up to the Upper Secondary Threshold (UST) in their first year of civilian employment. … Continue reading National Insurance contributions relief for employers who hire veterans →

HMRC end informal payrolling of benefit arrangements

In the February 2021 Employer Bulletin, HMRC have announced the end of informal payrolling arrangements. Informally payrolling HMRC state that ‘The small number of employers who informally payroll benefits must now... formally register for payrolling before the start of 2021 to 2022. [HMRC] will no longer accept informal arrangements’ For those who have not registered … Continue reading HMRC end informal payrolling of benefit arrangements →

February 2021 Employer Bulletin published

HMRC have published their new format web delivered Employer Bulletin. It’s absolutely packed with important information which will aid payroll professionals in obtaining vital information and guidance. There are a plethora of important topics: Coronavirus Job Retention SchemeVAT deferral new payment scheme – opt-in from the end of February 2021VAT reverse charge for construction and … Continue reading February 2021 Employer Bulletin published →

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme complaints to HMRC

Chris Law MP (SNP) asked a parliamentary question on 2nd February 2021: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what the average time taken is for investigating and resolving an incorrectly refused Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme claim. In response Jesse Norman (MP) of HM Treasury answered on 9th February 2021: In order to decide if … Continue reading Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme complaints to HMRC →

HMRC annual issue of P9 tax codes commences

HMRC have confirmed that electronic outputs of P9 tax codes to be applied for contractual payments dates from 6th April 2021, will be issued to employers or their electronic exchange agents who have their PAYE scheme set to ‘Yes’ for P9 bulk issue starting now and through until 19th February 2021. For employers where the … Continue reading HMRC annual issue of P9 tax codes commences →

Bounce back loan borrowers can delay repayments by extra six months

Businesses that took out government-backed Bounce Back Loans to get through Covid-19 will now have greater flexibility to repay their loans, the government announced 8th February 2021. Bounce Back Loan borrowers will now have the option to tailor payments according to their individual circumstancesChancellor makes support even more generous with the option to delay all … Continue reading Bounce back loan borrowers can delay repayments by extra six months →

National Apprenticeship Week 2021 – Why choose an apprenticeship?

The 8th February to 14th February is National Apprenticeships Week 2021. Here are five reasons to choose an ODP apprenticeship. Earn while you learn Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to get hands on experience, develop key skills by working alongside experienced colleagues and all whilst earning an income. As an apprentice you will also receive … Continue reading National Apprenticeship Week 2021 – Why choose an apprenticeship? →

80,000 new SWAPs opportunities

Nearly two million Brits could be supported back into work through innovative Plan for Jobs employment schemes delivered by the DWP. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has given (8th February 2021) a further boost to jobseekers by increasing the number of retraining places on the Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) to 80,000 for … Continue reading 80,000 new SWAPs opportunities →

Boost to rapid workplace testing

New government drive to increase workplace testing in sectors open during lockdown, to detect coronavirus (COVID-19) in people who are not showing symptoms. New government drive to increase workplace testing in sectors open during lockdown, to detect coronavirus (COVID-19) in people who are not showing symptomsGovernment departments tasked with ensuring targeted, rapid testing is set … Continue reading Boost to rapid workplace testing →

Action required – submit your January claims for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

Dear @PAYadvice, I’m writing to remind you of an upcoming deadline for Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) claims, and to answer some questions you or your clients may have. Also included is information on checking claims you made for variable paid employees – those not on fixed salaries – and more on HMRC publishing details … Continue reading Action required – submit your January claims for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme →

HMRC’s progress

HMRC, 100 Parliament Street by PSP(2019) How HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has performed during the first 9 months of tax year 2020 to 2021. The HMRC has published a news story charting their progress over the past 9 months. It has been a unique financial year as HMRC continues to be at the heart … Continue reading HMRC’s progress →

Salary Sacrifice and furlough reference salary

HMRC have added further clarification to the furlough guidance in relation to salary sacrifice arrangements and the calculation of the reference salary for the Job Retention Scheme. They clarify that: You cannot include the following when calculating wages: payments made at the discretion of the employer or a client - where the employer or client … Continue reading Salary Sacrifice and furlough reference salary →

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 4th February 2021

HMRC have applied further updates (4th February 2021) to the guidance for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. Page titleChangesCheck if your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (Employee Page)To update the contact HMRC paragraph and include there is no right of appealCheck if you can claim for your employee's wages through the Coronavirus … Continue reading Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 4th February 2021 →

SL1 student loan start notices – Plan 4 Scottish student loans – being issued from 5th March 2021

Are you ready to receive and apply the new SL1 notices requesting student loan deductions commence. 2021 sees the first issuing of SL1 notices for the new Scottish Plan 4 student loans deductions. The HMRC software developers support team (SDST) have indicated the following processing timetable of the revised SL1 notices which are applicable from … Continue reading SL1 student loan start notices – Plan 4 Scottish student loans – being issued from 5th March 2021 →

The Van Benefit and Car and Van Fuel Benefit Order 2021

HM Treasury have issued the following statement to enable payroll software and employers to prepare for the new tax year commencing 6th April 2021. Statement 4th February 2021 Kemi Badenoch MP Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury): The van benefit charge and fuel benefit charges for cars and vans will be uprated by the Consumer Price Index … Continue reading The Van Benefit and Car and Van Fuel Benefit Order 2021 →

Digital job surgeries launched to help 160,000 Brits get back into work

More than 150,000 jobseekers across Great Britain will benefit from new employment support, helping them build their interview skills, find local vacancies and quickly get back into work. New Job Finding Support service launched to benefit 160,000 people over the next yearSupport ranges from job searches and interview practice to advice on how to switch … Continue reading Digital job surgeries launched to help 160,000 Brits get back into work →

P9X Tax Codes to use from 6th April 2021

HMRC have published (Tuesday 2nd February 2021) form P9X to be operated by employers from 6th April 2021. Employers use the P9X to find out which PAYE tax codes to change, how to change them and which codes to carry forward ready for a new tax year on 6th April. P9X(2021) Information on the payroll … Continue reading P9X Tax Codes to use from 6th April 2021 →

23 and 24 year olds have minimum pay bonus!

Changes to the National Living Wage rate and age for pay periods commencing from 1st April 2021, see a significant rise for some 23 and 24 year old employees. For pay periods before the change, the National Living Wage (NLW) applied to those aged 25 and over. Some employers would have been paying NLW rates … Continue reading 23 and 24 year olds have minimum pay bonus! →

Low paid more likely to be impacted by pandemic claims TUC

New polling, published Monday 1st February by the TUC, finds that low earners are more likely than middle and higher earners to have been forced to cut spending and take on debt during the pandemic. The poll findings (conducted by BritainThinks) come as the TUC calls on the Chancellor to improve pandemic support for low- … Continue reading Low paid more likely to be impacted by pandemic claims TUC →

10.7 million tax returns filed by 31st January deadline

More than 10.7 million people have submitted their Self Assessment tax returns for the 2019 to 2020 tax year by the 31 January deadline. 12.1 million SA returns due10,743,387 returns received by 31 January - this includes Expected Returns, unsolicited returns and Late Registrations10,351,387 Expected Returns received by 31 January (85.25% of returns expected)392,000 unsolicited … Continue reading 10.7 million tax returns filed by 31st January deadline →

Self Assessment 2021 – update

Dear @PAYadvice, On 25th January HMRC announced that Self Assessment customers will not receive a late filing penalty for their late tax return if they file online by 28‌‌ ‌February. This easement is for late filing penalties only. It does not affect any other tax obligations. A return received in February will be treated in … Continue reading Self Assessment 2021 – update →

6th April 2021 tax changes confirmed

Following the Scottish budget, the HMRC have confirmed the tax allowances, rates and thresholds for 2021/2022 across the UK, these are effective from 6th April 2021. The tables below provide both the current and the new tax year values. Personal Allowance England and Northern Ireland Tax calculations for 6th April include changes announced by the … Continue reading 6th April 2021 tax changes confirmed →

Scottish Income Tax Changes 2021

Income tax is the responsibility of the UK Government and is collected and managed by HMRC. However, the Scotland Act 2012 gave the Scottish Parliament the power to set a different rate of income tax in Scotland, known as the Scottish Rate of Income Tax (SRIT). This took effect from 6 April 2016. Scotland Act … Continue reading Scottish Income Tax Changes 2021 →

Funding boost to get young people get into work

New £1000 cash support for businesses to help with the cost of providing a traineeship Employers can now apply for a £1000 cash boost to help them take on new trainees, Apprenticeships and Skills Minister, Gillian Keegan has announced today 27th January 2021. Gillian Keegan, Minister for Apprenticeships and Skills: We’re pulling out all the … Continue reading Funding boost to get young people get into work →

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 26th January 2021

Following yesterday issuing of the Chancellors HM Treasury direction for further changes and extensions to the Job Retention Scheme, HMRC guidance has been updated on the night of 26th January 2021: The main item was the publication of the new page ‘Employers who have claimed through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme’Also a new page ‘Ask … Continue reading Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 26th January 2021 →

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) – claim now before 29th January deadline

Dear @PAYadvice, The deadline for claiming the third SEISS grant is fast approaching. If your clients are eligible, they must make their claim on or before 29‌‌‌th January 2021. As with the first and second SEISS grants, the third grant will be subject to Income Tax and self-employed National Insurance and must also be reported … Continue reading Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) – claim now before 29th January deadline →

ONS: UK Labour market overview January 2021

Since February 2020, the number of payroll employees has fallen by 828,000; however, the larger falls were seen at the start of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Data from our Labour Force Survey (LFS) show a large increase in the unemployment rate while the employment rate continues to fall. The number of redundancies reached a record … Continue reading ONS: UK Labour market overview January 2021 →

Naming starts! Employers who have claimed through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

The naming list HMRC have published the list of employers who claimed CJRS in December 2020. HMRC have used the employer name that’s attached to the qualifying PAYE scheme. Employers who have claimed through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Those not named This data does not include employers: with a successful or pending application to … Continue reading Naming starts! Employers who have claimed through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme →

Job Retention Scheme changes announced for application from 1st February 2021

Treasury Direction made under Sections 71 and 76 of the Coronavirus Act 2020 The Chancellor Rishi Sunak has issued to HMRC the 6th Treasury Direction in relation to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Job Retention Bonus. This sets out the calculation rules for the Job Retention Scheme from 1st February 2021 and extends the … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme changes announced for application from 1st February 2021 →

Kickstart moves up a gear with over 120,000 jobs created so far and government making it even simpler for employers to join

More than 120,000 jobs for 16 to 24 year olds have now been created through the government’s flagship Kickstart Scheme, as ministers have urged more employers to get involved. The scheme, which has been underway since September, is helping to put young people who have been some of the hardest hit by the economic impact … Continue reading Kickstart moves up a gear with over 120,000 jobs created so far and government making it even simpler for employers to join →

TUC – Covid occupational deaths expose “huge inequalities” in labour market and need for tougher safety rules

Men working in elementary occupations or caring, leisure and other service occupations had the highest rates of death involving COVID-19. Women working in Process, plant and machine operatives, and Caring, leisure and other service occupations had the highest rate of death involving COVID-19 compared with women of the same age in the general population Commenting … Continue reading TUC – Covid occupational deaths expose “huge inequalities” in labour market and need for tougher safety rules →

“Fire and rehire” tactics have become widespread during pandemic – warns TUC

New poll reveals that nearly 1 in 10 workers have been told to re-apply for their jobs on worse terms and conditions or face the sack   Almost a quarter say their working terms, such as pay or hours, have been downgraded since first lockdown in March  TUC says government must deliver on promise to protect and enhance workers’ rights … Continue reading “Fire and rehire” tactics have become widespread during pandemic – warns TUC →

Changes to late filing penalty for 2019-20 Self Assessment returns

Dear @PAYadvice, Today HMRC has announced that Self Assessment customers will not receive a penalty for filing their 2019-20 tax return late, as long as they file online by 28‌‌th February. We are still encouraging customers who have not yet filed to do so by 31‌‌st January, if possible. Customers still need to pay their … Continue reading Changes to late filing penalty for 2019-20 Self Assessment returns →

More employers sign up to rapid testing to protect workforce

Dozens of public and private sector employers are now offering rapid testing to those without symptoms. Expansion of testing will find more positive cases, keeping key workers from unknowingly passing on the virus and protecting vital servicesOrganisations signed up to workplace testing already include Royal Mail, Tate & Lyle Sugars, Primula, Moy Park, Octopus Energy, … Continue reading More employers sign up to rapid testing to protect workforce →

Home-working reaches highest levels since June 2020

The Office for National Statistics report ‘Coronavirus and the social impacts on Great Britain: 22 January 2021’ for the period 13th to 17th January 2021, shows the highest levels of home working since June 2020. “The proportion of working adults that have worked from home was at its highest since June 2020; 45% this week … Continue reading Home-working reaches highest levels since June 2020 →

Employer Bulletin – UK transition edition

Dear @PAYadvice, Following the UK’s exit from Europe on 31 December 2020, we have published a UK Transition edition of the Employer Bulletin. This contains a roundup of information and support previously published to continue supporting you. In this edition, you can find out about the new rules for: trading with Europebusiness travellerssocial security coordination. … Continue reading Employer Bulletin – UK transition edition →

Pensions: The Automatic Enrolment (Earnings Trigger and Qualifying Earnings Band) Order 2021

The Department for Works and Pension (DWP) have laid the draft regulations for a Pension Automatic Enrolment (AE) thresholds operational for pay reference periods commencing from 6th April 2021. The draft regulation can be found at:- The Automatic Enrolment (Earnings Trigger and Qualifying Earnings Band) Order 2021 And PAYadvice.UK had predicted, there is no change … Continue reading Pensions: The Automatic Enrolment (Earnings Trigger and Qualifying Earnings Band) Order 2021 →

HMRC – a word about scams

306,000 reports of phone scams HMRC indicate that they have received more than 306,000 reports about phone scams in the last year, up 47%. The department responded to over 846,000 public referrals of suspicious HMRC contact in total. Nearly 496,000 of these offered bogus tax rebates, as a way of stealing personal data. 496,000 reported … Continue reading HMRC – a word about scams →

COVID-19: Employer support – live webinars

Dear @PAYadvice, Claims under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) are currently open for pay periods in January‌‌ ‌2021. Claims for December are now closed, but if you find you need to make a change because you didn’t claim enough you can do this until Thursday‌‌ ‌28 January. Make sure you have the latest information by joining … Continue reading COVID-19: Employer support – live webinars →

Northern Ireland – Limited Company Directors Support Scheme

The NI Minister for the Economy has announced details of the Limited Company Director’s Support Scheme, to provide financial support to company directors who have personally been adversely impacted by COVID-19. The scheme, administered by Invest Northern Ireland on behalf of the Department for the Economy, will open to online applications at 6pm on Thursday … Continue reading Northern Ireland – Limited Company Directors Support Scheme →

Missed the Thursday 14th January 2021 claim deadline

If an employer didn't submit their December furlough claims by the deadline of 14 January, HMRC may still accept it if there is a reasonable excuse for not claiming by the deadline, such as self-isolating, or an unexpected stay in hospital that prevented completing a claim. If the reason means you can claim late, do … Continue reading Missed the Thursday 14th January 2021 claim deadline →

HMRC appoints new Director General for customer service

Myrtle Lloyd Newly-appointed Director General for Customer Service Group: Following an external recruitment process and approval from the Prime Minister, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced that the new Director General for Customer Service Group will be Myrtle Lloyd. Myrtle is currently Chief Operating Officer at Her Majesty’s Passport Office, as well as Registrar … Continue reading HMRC appoints new Director General for customer service →

Fascinating facts! Self-Assessment

HM Revenue and Customs shares some little-known facts about Self Assessment ahead of the 31 January 2021 deadline. Almost 100,000 people filed their tax returns last 6th April 2020, the first day of the tax year? With the 31st January 2021 deadline fast approaching, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has shared some little-known facts about … Continue reading Fascinating facts! Self-Assessment →

National free school meals voucher scheme opens to orders

Edenred site opens for schools to purchase eGift cards for eligible families to use at their choice of supermarkets Schools can begin ordering free school meal vouchers for eligible pupils from today as the Government’s national scheme launches, adding to the support available for disadvantaged families. An online service for schools, the scheme allows schools … Continue reading National free school meals voucher scheme opens to orders →

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Self-Employment Income Support Scheme claims deadlines

Dear @PAYadvice, I’m writing to remind you of upcoming claims deadlines for the following schemes: Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS)Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) I’d also like to update you on the information we’ll be publishing on CJRS claims from this month. Upcoming deadlines You and your clients can now submit your CJRS furlough claims … Continue reading Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Self-Employment Income Support Scheme claims deadlines →

HMRC: Payroll 2021/22: Statutory Payments CORRECTION

There were a number of errors in the statutory payments rates which were circulated by HMRC SDSTeam on 22nd December 2020. A new Version 2 has been issued and replaces the previous version. The corrections are to the unrounded daily rates for 7 qualifying days (corrected to 13.7642) and 3 qualifying days (32.1166). Also, a … Continue reading HMRC: Payroll 2021/22: Statutory Payments CORRECTION →

Struggling to pay essential bills because of coronavirus?

Government advice for those in difficulty with utility bills, or repayment commitments on credit cards, loans and mortgages, as a result of coronavirus (COVID-19). For those worried about paying utility bills or repaying credit cards, loans or mortgages due to the impact of coronavirus, the government guidance sets out the steps you can take to … Continue reading Struggling to pay essential bills because of coronavirus? →

Preparing for changes to the off-payroll working rules (IR35) on 6 April 2021

There are less than 100 days until changes to the off-payroll working rules (IR35) come into effect on 6 April 2021. Changes to the off-payroll working rules (IR35) HMRC are providing support to help customers continue to prepare for the changes. Help and support for off-payroll working Those who should take action are: large and … Continue reading Preparing for changes to the off-payroll working rules (IR35) on 6 April 2021 →

Furlough naming to commence

Publishing details of employers claiming Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) HMRC will publish the names of employers who have made CJRS claims for periods from December 2020 onwards. This is part of the government and HMRC commitment to transparency, and to deter fraudulent claims. The first publication will be on 26 January 2021. This will … Continue reading Furlough naming to commence →

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updated

HMRC have updated the following relating to the extended Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (Furlough) on Wednesday 13th January 2021. Page titleChangeCheck if you can claim for your employee's wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention SchemeTo include the objection process to excuse employer claims information being publishedCalculate how much you can claim using the Coronavirus Job Retention … Continue reading Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance updated →

New protections for small pension pot fees

Thanks to automatic pension enrolment, over 10 million employees have already been enrolled into a workplace pension. But nobody should save into a pension only to find their hard-earned savings eroded completely away by charges. Minister for Pensions @GuyOpperman: "Protecting savers and giving them value for their money is my priority. No-one should find their … Continue reading New protections for small pension pot fees →

56,000 parents apply for Scottish Child Payment

Parents across Scotland have been applying early for the new Scottish Child Payment that will open on Monday 15 February. Social Security Scotland is taking applications ahead of the new benefit’s introduction to help manage demand. 56,000 applications were received between Monday 9 November and Sunday 3 January. Those who apply before the start date … Continue reading 56,000 parents apply for Scottish Child Payment →

Government proposals to help more people in problem debt

Consultation launched aimed at extending debt solutions and helping vulnerable people in financial distress get a fresh start. Increasing the financial eligibility criteria will give more people access to debt relief orders and help them get out of problem debtResearch shows that more people are seeking debt advice and are likely to require financial relief … Continue reading Government proposals to help more people in problem debt →

Thinking of hiring from the EU

Free movement has ended, and the new points-based immigration system has salary and language requirements that change the way employers hire from the EU. The new system treats EU and non-EU citizens equally and transforms the way in which employers recruit from outside the UK. An employer needs a sponsor licence to hire most eligible … Continue reading Thinking of hiring from the EU →

Zero rate NI for Veterans – draft legislation

At Spring Budget last year, the government announced its intention to introduce a National Insurance Contributions (NICs) holiday for employers who hire former members of the UK regular armed forces.  The relief will exempt employers for any NICs liability on veteran’s salary up to the Upper Secondary Threshold in their first year of civilian employment. … Continue reading Zero rate NI for Veterans – draft legislation →

Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) launched

New agreement ensures the rights of UK residents to access emergency and medically necessary care when travelling in the EU will continue. UK’s new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) launched as part of UK / EU dealGlobal Health Insurance Card (GHIC) will gradually replace existing European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) UK residents will now be … Continue reading Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) launched →

Plan for jobs – Financial Support Package

The Government’s claims its comprehensive package of financial support is continuing to protect jobs and help businesses and individuals through the COVID-19 outbreak in guidance issued Friday 8th January 2021. Rishi Sunak: There's no denying the next few weeks are going to be difficult. But the end is in sight. That’s why we’ve redoubled our … Continue reading Plan for jobs – Financial Support Package →

Businesses still open – is it COVID-secure, and what about those working from home?

For businesses still open under the current national lockdown, they must continue to ensure that premises are COVID-secure. The HSE is continuing to carry out spot checks and inspections across the country. And there are also obligations for those working from home. Making your workplace COVID-secure during the coronavirus pandemic Protect home workers PAYadvice.UK 8/1/2021

Legislation Update 2021 for payroll – updated version released

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PAYadvice.UK have issued its 21.3 version of the PAYadvice Series Legislation Update 2021. This is a compilation of the changes due for 2021 for the UK, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Following the Scottish budget (28th January), the HMRC have confirmed the tax changes across the UK effective from 6th April 2021. When … Continue reading Legislation Update 2021 for payroll – updated version released →

Action required – submit your Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Self-Employment Income Support Scheme claims

Dear @PAYadvice, I’m writing to remind you of upcoming deadlines for Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) claims, and to answer some questions you or your clients might have, too. CJRS December claims deadline You must submit any December claims no later than‌‌ ‌Thursday‌‌ ‌14‌‌ ‌January. You or your clients … Continue reading Action required – submit your Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Self-Employment Income Support Scheme claims →

Self Assessment deadline: less than a month to go

Around 55% of Self Assessment customers have already filed their return, and HMRC is urging others to do so by 31 January. According to HM Revenue and Customs, around 5.4 million Self Assessment filers have less than a month to complete their tax return. HMRC expects 12.1 million tax returns to be filed this year. … Continue reading Self Assessment deadline: less than a month to go →

Right to work checks for EEA and Swiss nationals during the EU- Exit grace period (1 January – 30 June 2021)

The following is based on the revised Appendix B guidance issued by the UK Home Office. Free movement ended on 1st January 2021. This means EEA and Swiss nationals (and their families) will need to qualify for status under either the new points-based Immigration system or the EU Settlement Scheme. The Citizen’s Rights (Application Deadline … Continue reading Right to work checks for EEA and Swiss nationals during the EU- Exit grace period (1 January – 30 June 2021) →

New lockdown grants to support businesses and protect jobs

Businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors are to receive a one-off grant worth up to £9,000, the Chancellor has announced. Chancellor announces one-off top up grants for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses worth up to £9,000 per property to help businesses through to the Spring£594 million discretionary fund also made available to support … Continue reading New lockdown grants to support businesses and protect jobs →

Furlough, childcare and caring responsibilities – guidance updated

HMRC have updated ‘caring responsibilities’ guidance (on Tuesday 5th January) in relation to childcare for parents who are unable to either work, or need to reduce working hours due to home schooling or closure of childcare facilities. GuidanceCheck if your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Information about if you have caring responsibilities … Continue reading Furlough, childcare and caring responsibilities – guidance updated →

Prime Minister announces national lockdown

The Prime Minister has announced a national lockdown and instructed people to stay at home to control the virus, protect the NHS and save lives. The decision follows a rapid rise in infections, hospital admissions and case rates across the country, and our hospitals are now under more pressure than they have been at any … Continue reading Prime Minister announces national lockdown →

Bosses should offer furlough to working parents affected by school closures, says TUC

The TUC is calling on employers to offer furlough to all parents affected by school closures. Last minute decision by ministers to close schools means many working mums and dads are now without childcare TUC asks employers to ‘do the right thing’ and offer furlough to parents And calls on government to introduce 10 days’ … Continue reading Bosses should offer furlough to working parents affected by school closures, says TUC →

December furlough – Not claimed before? Claim deadline 14th January 2021

With Tier 4 shutdown measures, and further potential restrictions, employers who have not had to furlough staff previously may now be furloughing for the first time and never had to make a prior Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme before. How do you calculate the government grant amounts and make the claim? What is ‘reference salary’ and … Continue reading December furlough – Not claimed before? Claim deadline 14th January 2021 →

Significant uplift in key public sector jobs

Boris Johnson reaffirmed his commitment to boost the numbers of teachers, police officers, nurses and other public sector workers. NHS recruitment drive boosts the number of doctors by more than 6,000 and nurses by 13,000.Almost 6,000 police officers have been hired as part of the Government’s commitment to reach 20,000 additional officers by the end … Continue reading Significant uplift in key public sector jobs →

Tampon tax abolished 1st Jan 2021

With the UK leaving the EU, the ‘tampon tax’ has been abolished - with a zero rate of VAT applying to women’s sanitary products coming into effect 1st January 2021. tampon tax abolished - from 1st January 2021 VAT no longer applies to women’s sanitary productspart of wider government action to End Period Poverty which … Continue reading Tampon tax abolished 1st Jan 2021 →