Businesses are planning to adopt ‘hybrid’ working post COVID
The Institute of Directors (IoD) has carried out a survey and found that, once the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown restrictions are fully lifted, businesses are planning to adopt so-called 'hybrid' working . The survey of 600 business leaders revealed that 63% of...
Pandemic caused biggest annual employment fall for older workers
According to research carried out by the Resolution Foundation, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has caused the biggest annual employment reduction for older workers since the 1980s. In a new report, the Foundation revealed that the pandemic has created 'a U-shaped...
Fourth self-employed grant available
HMRC has confirmed that the online service for applications for the fourth Self-employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) grant is now open for claims. Applications cannot be handled by accountants or tax advisers and therefore must be submitted by the individual...
95% mortgage scheme launched
Available to lenders from 19 April 2021, a new government-backed mortgage scheme will help people with 5% deposits get on to the housing ladder. As announced at the 2021 Budget, the scheme will help first-time buyers or current homeowners secure a mortgage with just a...
New claims required for people working from home
HMRC has stated that, employees who are working from home will need to make new claims for tax relief for the 2021/22 tax year. Employers have been able to pay employees up to £6 a week tax-free from 6 April 2020, to cover additional costs if they have had to work...
Bounce Back loans sum to over £46 billion
Since the coronavirus (COVID-19) support scheme was launched last May, more than 1.5 million Bounce Back loans have been taken out. According to the Treasury, borrowing by businesses is now over £46 billion. The Coronavirus Recovery Loan Scheme is set to replace the...
£1.5 billion fund for business rates relief
Business rates relief is to be extended with a £1.5 billion fund targeted at those businesses unable to benefit from the current coronavirus (COVID-19) support. As part of a 15 month-long relief which runs to the end on June this year retail, hospitality and leisure...
SMEs could claim up to £2000 to help with training
Nigel Holland Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) requiring advice on imports and exports can now apply for a grant of up to £2,000. What you’ll be able to use the grant for You can use the grant for training on: how to complete customs declarationshow to manage...
HMRC will accept appeals for late tax returns in bulk due to pandemic
HMRC has announced that tax agents and accountants will be able to send bulk appeals against late filing penalties for tax returns filed after 28 February, if the reason for late filing is due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This comes after HMRC said that penalty notice...
Class 2 NIC warning
Nigel Holland " There have been worrying developments regarding the HMRC payment holiday and the deferral which has been offered. Class 2 payments must be made to qualify for certain benefits and although the government's help is appreciated it could have a knock on...