Changes to Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from 1 October 2020

The government's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) moves into its final phase this October before a new scheme comes into force. The CJRS will close on 31 October 2020.

From 1st October, the government will pay 60% of wages up to a cap of £1,875 for the hours the employee is on furlough. Employers will pay ER NICs and pension contributions and top up employees’ wages to ensure they receive 80% of their wages up to a cap of £2,500, for time they are furloughed.

Employers will continue to able to choose to top up employee wages above the 80% total and £2,500 cap for the hours not worked at their own expense if they wish. Employers will have to pay their employees for the hours worked.

Final Claims under CJRS, must be made by 30th November 2020. 

The CJRS has supported more than 9.6 million workers furloughed by 1.2 million employers since March. These employers had made £39.3bn of furlough claims by 20 September and the scheme will cost the government an estimated £60bn in total.