General help for businesses in Ireland during lockdown
The Government has introduced a number of measures to assist businesses reduce their operational costs.
Waiving of commercial rates
Rates due to local authorities from the most immediately impacted businesses – primarily in the retail, hospitality, leisure and childcare sectors, are waived (previously deferred) for a 3 month period beginning on 27 March for businesses that have been forced to close due to public health requirements.
Annual returns and tax returns
All annual returns due to be filed by companies will be deemed to have been filed on time if all elements of the annual return are completed and filed by 30 June 2020. This will enable businesses and their financial advisers to focus on the more pressing and immediate financial challenges.
The situation will be kept under review and the date of 30 June may be extended depending on the situation at that time. Companies should check the CRO website for more details.
Revenue has advice for businesses experiencing trading difficulties as a result of COVID-19. This includes information on tax returns, late payment interest, debt enforcement, tax clearance and customs.
‘Warehousing’ of tax liabilities
COVID-19 related VAT and payroll tax debts, due from 1 March 2020 to the date when sectoral restrictions are lifted, will be deferred for a period of 12 months. There will be no debt enforcement action taken by revenue and no interest charge accruing for warehoused debit. You can get more information from revenue.
Joint First Responder support
The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and DBEI will provide joint First Responder support services through the Intreo Offices and development agencies, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland in each region to provide tailored supports for impacted firms, with the objective of avoiding mass lay-offs and buying time for firms to work through the short-term disruptions.
Support is also available from:
