A leading accountancy firm in Suffolk has warned of “potential panic” for the self-employed after workers were told they could not get the help of accountants to file for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.
The eagerly awaited scheme to assist individuals classed as self-employed throughout the outbreak of coronavirus is going live on May 13. It will allow individuals to claim a taxable grant of 80% of their average monthly trading profits up to £7,500.
But this week workers were told that they could not apply through an agent despite the fact that accountants have been able to complete paperwork for the equivalent scheme for businesses furloughing workers.
Andrew Diver, head of tax for Beatons Group based in Ipswich, said: “Unlike the furlough scheme, the self-employed cannot ask their accountant to make the claim on their behalf.
“This will be frustrating for many of you who have always relied on us to help with paperwork and although the process is likely to be simple, these people have waited patiently for help and there is the potential for panic the day the scheme launches.
“We hope that HMRC will rethink the method of claiming and allow us to help the many self-employed workers access this scheme.”
The online service will be available next week; however, workers can check if they are eligible for the payment now.
Those who are self-employed need to enter their Self-Assessment Unique Taxpayer Reference and National Insurance number. If eligible, HMRC will inform the applicant of the date they can make their claim from.
If the application is approved, the payment should be received within six working days.
Mr Diver added: “The most important requirement for the application is to have a Government Gateway ID and password, and if you do not know your ID or do not have one yet, we recommend that you apply as soon as possible to avoid a delay in receiving payment.
“While we cannot submit the claim on your behalf, we are here to answer any questions you have.”
Full information on the scheme is available here. If you need advice, contact Beatons by calling 01473 659777 or email info@beatons.co.uk
