The support schemes that have been offered by the government through the COVID-19 Pandemic are constantly evolving and changing. We have put together this information page to help to guide you through the support that may be available to you at this time.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Extended
The Furlough Scheme has been extended until the end of September 2021. In June employees will receive 80% of their usual salary for hours not worked. This is capped at a maximum of £2500 per month.
In July this will decrease to 70%, in August & September this will decrease to 60%.
Find out more about the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
Fourth & Fifth Grants available under the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme
Additional grants have been announced to support Self-Employed individuals who are struggling due to Coronavirus. These will take into account submitted 2019-20 tax returns. Even if you were unable to claim the previous grants you may still be able to make a claim! Find out more about the grants and eligibility here.
VAT Deferral Payment Scheme
Any deferred payments that were due to be paid from 20th March - 30th June 2020 need to be paid to HMRC by 31st March 2021. These payments can be paid in equal instalments using the VAT Deferral New Payment Scheme until 31st March 2022 without incurring interest.
There is also the option of arranging payments with HMRC using the 'Time To Pay' support system. More information about the VAT Deferral Payment Scheme can be found here.
Stay safe from scams!
We have had reports of many different scams at this time, including emails and phone calls that appear to be from HMRC. They mimic government messages and appear to be authentic so it is important to stay vigilant.
Help is available from HMRC. If you search 'scams' you will be given information on how to how to recognise genuine HMRC contact.
You can also forward suspicious emails claiming to be from HMRC to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and texts to 60599.