With a five-month extension of the furlough scheme into Spring 2021, workers across the United Kingdom will benefit from increased support, the Chancellor announced today, 5 November.
- The furlough scheme will now be extended until the end of March
- The next self-employed income support grant will also increase from 55% to 80% of average profits – up to £7,500
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will now run until the end of March with employees receiving 80% of their current salary for hours not worked.
Similarly, support for workers through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) will be increased, with the third grant covering November to January, calculated based on 80% of 3 months’ average trading profits, paid out in a single instalment and capped at £7,500.
There are currently no employer contributions to wages for hours not worked. Employers will only be asked to cover National Insurance and employer pension contributions for hours not worked. For an average claim, this accounts for just 5% of total employment costs or £70 per employee per month. The CJRS extension will be reviewed in January to examine whether the economic circumstances are improving enough for employers to be asked to increase contributions.
More information on today’s policy announcements can be found in this factsheet.
If you require advice or assistance to help you and your business, please contact your usual Beavis Morgan Client Partner or email info@beavismorgan.com.
For further information about the Government measures to protect individuals and businesses, visit our COVID-19: Support for UK businesses hub.