The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was unveiled by the Chancellor on 20 March 2020. It is a scheme which assists employers to pay the wages and employment costs of workers with the intention of saving jobs and businesses who have suffered as a result of the pandemic.

HMRC issued guidance on how the Scheme is intended to operate which has been changed a number of times, the latest guidance being issued on 17th April 2020.  The Scheme went live on 20th April 2020 with the opening of HMRC’s portal.

The Treasury also issued a Direction to HMRC under powers conferred by the Coronavirus Act 2020, containing authority and instructions for making payments under the Scheme. Although amendments are possible, it is likely to be the definitive legal authority on how the Scheme works.

There is a large volume of detail both in the HMRC Guidance and in the Treasury Direction, some of which is unfortunately contradictory.

Brabners has produced a comprehensive Q and A document designed to assist employers in understanding their obligations and is based on our understanding of the Scheme as it currently stands.  If you would like to receive a free copy of this, please contact Christine Hart at christine.hart@brabners.com or call 01772 229 832.