Revenue reminds employers to register for EWSS before start of scheme on 1 September

Last Thursday Revenue confirmed that employers could register for the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) through Revenue’s Online Service, ROS. Registration applications will only be processed if the employer has an active PAYE/PRSI registration, has a bank account linked to that registration and has tax clearance. Over the last week, more than 12,100 employers have registered for the scheme and over 14,800 applications for tax clearance have been made.

Today (27/08/2020), Revenue reminded eligible employers, and payroll or tax agents acting on their behalf, that they should register for the EWSS through Revenue’s Online Service (ROS) now, if they have not already done so. As applications for the scheme cannot be backdated, Revenue stressed the importance of registering for the scheme prior to the first pay date in respect of which EWSS is being claimed.

Orla Fitzpatrick, head of Revenue’s Medium Enterprises Division and responsible for implementing the EWSS, outlined some key advice for employers who wish to avail of the scheme:

“Employers who meet the eligibility conditions should take action and register now if they wish to claim EWSS in respect of payroll submissions with a pay date on or after 1 September 2020. However, in doing so, employers should be aware that making an application for tax clearance and registering for the EWSS are separate processes. Both processes need to be completed before an employer can access EWSS supports. Additionally, employers who are currently claiming the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) must separately register for the EWSS as different eligibility conditions apply to both schemes.”

Ms Fitzpatrick added:

“So far today, over 4,000 employers have registered for EWSS. Taking the important and straightforward steps of getting tax clearance and separately registering for EWSS in ROS will ensure eligible employers can access the key financial support provided by the scheme.”

Information and guidance in relation to the EWSS, including in relation to checking and applying for tax clearance and registering for the scheme can be found here. A further expanded employer guideline will issue during week beginning 31 August.

Finally, also today, Revenue published updated Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) statistics. The latest report can be found here.

[Ends 27/08/2020]