Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: maximising the prospects of a successful claim

Coronavirus is with us, and the Government swiftly offered support to businesses and employers to help alleviate some of the effects of its actions. One form of help—the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS)—offers up to 80% of an employee's salary to a cap of £2500 per month (Gov.uk, 2020). However, it is not perfect and has holes. While details are emerging, employers are asking what they need to do to make a successful claim.

Clearly, the process is subject to change, but with new guidance outlined at the start of April, we can now detail the process.

Firstly, to take part in the scheme, employers will be required to submit information to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) about those employees that have been furloughed and their earnings through a new online portal, which went live on 20 April 2020.

Employers will need to designate affected individuals as ‘furloughed workers’ and notify them of the change. Furthermore, to keep firms alive, the guidance confirms that employers are free to consider allocating any business-critical tasks to those that have not been furloughed.