How to calculate and how to claim
The online claim system for the grant for 80% of your furloughed employees’ salaries, through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, is now live. NB Applications need to be completed by 22 April to be paid by 30 April. This scheme will be open until the end of June 2020.
Before you make a claim
- read all the available guidance on GOV.UK before you apply
- gather all the information and the calculations you need before you start your application – if you have a payroll provider, they will be able to help you with this
- you can find out more in the calculation guidance where you can access a claim calculator – this will allow you to check your claim for employees who are paid the same amount each pay period
- access the Government’s simple step-by-step guide for additional help.
After you’ve made a claim
- keep a note or a print-out of your claim reference number – you won’t receive a confirmation
- retain all records and calculations for your claims
- expect to receive the funds six working days after you apply (provided the claim matches records held for your PAYE scheme).
Furloughing staff and amending contracts – advice from ACAS
ACAS reminds employers that they must select people for furlough in a fair way to avoid any discrimination.
They should:
- get agreement in writing and be clear how much the employee or worker will get paid during their furlough
- keep furloughed workers on the employer’s payroll and continue their employment contracts while furloughed
- make sure furloughs last at least three weeks
If someone disagrees with their employer’s decision about being selected for furlough or how much they’ll get paid, they should talk to their employer and try to come to an agreement.
Changing an employment contract
If an employer cannot reach an agreement with an employee or worker, they may want to change the written terms in their contract. ACAS has advice about changing an employment contract. Read more