TaxAssist Accountants launches government support petition

TaxAssist Accountants has revealed its success in launching a petition to get the attention of government figures.

The bookkeeping and accounting franchise has taken action to help directors and shareholders of small, limited companies. It’s shown its support for ForgottenLtd and Excluded UK campaigners, who have highlighted inconsistencies in the government’s support packages.

Through the schemes in operation, bosses who ordinarily generate a salary via PAYE can access furlough payments. However, many small business owners and shareholders only take a small amount of money from PAYE and top up their income from company dividends.

As a result of the government’s stipulation, around 2.9 million people are unable to benefit from its financial support. And many of those missing out are in desperate need of extra funding. In fact, ForgottenLtd says as many as 7.5 million jobs could be at stake if the government doesn’t change its ruling.

The campaigners have suggested the government should introduce a programme similar to the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS) to help small business owners get the financial assistance they need.

TaxAssist Accountants started an online petition to help raise awareness of the issue and stir up support among others in the business community. It quickly gained more than 100,000 signatures and was picked up by the government.

The introduction of an additional financial support scheme was due to be discussed in Westminster Hall at 4:30pm on Wednesday 9th December as an hour-long debate. Interested parties could watch the action via the Parliament Live stream and keep up with developments.

TaxAssist Accountants has not yet revealed the outcome of the debate, but business owners and shareholders of small, limited companies across the UK are hoping to access government support soon.