The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) commonly known as the furlough scheme will be extended until the 30 September 2021. The Chancellor confirmed that employees will receive up to 80% of their salary for hours not worked subject to a monthly maximum of £2,500 until the scheme ends. The CJRS will also continue in its present form for employers until the end of June 2021. As the economy reopens and demand returns, the government will introduce employer contributions towards the cost of unworked hours of 10% in July and 20% in August and September. 

The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak also confirmed that the Self Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS) will continue for a fourth and fifth grant. The fourth grant covers the period from 1 February 2021 to 30 April 2021 and the fifth and final grant will cover the period from May onwards. The fourth grant will provide support covering 80% of average trading profits, up to a maximum of £7,500 for those who meet the eligibility requirements. The fifth and final grant will see those whose turnover has fallen by 30% or more continuing to receive the full 80% grant whilst those whose turnover has fallen by less than 30% will receive a 30% grant.

The SEISS scheme will also be extended to the newly self-employed who filed a 2019-20 tax return by midnight, 2 March 2021.