New rules on tax relief for travel and subsistence could catch businesses out when they come in to force on April 6th this year. This was the message at a seminar held in Spinningfields this week.
The change to the law, initially proposed in last year’s autumn budget statement, removes tax relief on home-to-work travel and subsistence for temporary workers employed through an employment business or umbrella company.
Altrincham-based recruitment specialist, Meridian Business Support, who work with companies from a wide range of sectors and have branches across the country, says companies need to ensure their recruitment provider is up to speed with the new legislation to ensure they are fully compliant.
Speaking about the changes, Jeanette Barrowcliffe, Finance Director at Meridian Business Supports says: “It’s really important that companies who employ staff through a recruitment company ensure that the new legislation is being adhered to. At the end of the day it is ultimately their reputation that is on the line so it’s critical in terms of business protection.
“We are urging companies to truly partner with and understand the culture and practices of their chosen recruitment supplier and this was the message delivered at this week’s seminar.”
The breakfast seminar was held at Barclays in Spinningfields and explored the reasons why businesses should partner with their suppliers; including the impact of the Government’s intention to remove tax relief on home-to-work travel and subsistence for temporary workers.
Guest speakers included Simon Whitehead, Partner at HRC Law an expert on Travel and Subsistence Changes for Temporary Workers and Contractors. Mark Smith, Head of EAME Recruitment from Caterpillar explained how he partners with his recruitment supply chain and Kevin Green, Chief Executive from The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), talked about the current state of the UK jobs market and REC’s Good Recruitment Campaign.
Mark Smith and Kevin Green both reiterated the importance of building a successful relationship with your supply chain partners through communication, trust and honesty and Kevin finished by suggesting companies to sign up to The Good Recruitment Campaign.
The event concluded that preparation with your recruitment partner and gaining specialist advice is crucial to navigating the change in legislation.
Jeanette Barrowcliffe, Finance Director at Meridian Business Supports says: “The seminar provided delegates with a better insight into the T&S legislation change and how choosing the right recruitment partner is critical to protecting your business and reputation. Thanks to the speakers for their expertise and Barclays for their hospitality.”