This week’s COVID-19 tidbits, 10 August 2020

HMRC and the UK Government continue to publish updates on COVID-19 related issues. When using a form or publication going forward or contacting HMRC, check you are using the most recent version or up to date way of contact which may have changed due to the pandemic. 

• The Government has published a briefing pack in respect of the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme; 

• Some more details have been made available on the job retention bonus. As the employer, you or your clients will be able to claim the bonus after you have filed PAYE information for Ja‌nu‌ar‌y 2021, and the bonus will be paid from Fe‌br‌ua‌ry 2021. More detailed guidance, including how employers can claim the bonus online will be available by the end of September; and 

• The House of Commons Justice Committee has published its report on the impacts of the pandemic on the legal professions in England and Wales. The report expresses concern that without further support many publicly-funded legal service providers may collapse, reducing access to justice.