Share Plan Annual Returns Are Approaching

Approaching the end of the tax year in the world of share plans is a bit like Christmas, there are 2 types of shopper, those who buy their presents in good time, and those who rush out on Christmas Eve.

RM2 are definatley in the former category and as we approach the end of the tax year our Operations Team start to think about the share plan annual returns that we will prepare and submit for our clients.

Since April 2014 HMRC has required all reportable share schemes to be registered online under Employment Related Securities (“ERS”), which can be accessed via the PAYE portal of the HMRC online Services. This includes the non-tax advantaged plans but only where there has been a reportable event.

Companies that have established a tax advantaged scheme such as the Enterprise Management Incentive Plan (“EMI”), Share Incentive Plan (“SIP”), Company Share Option Plan (“CSOP”), Growth Share Plan (“GSP”) and Save As You Earn (“SAYE”) will need to self-certify that the schemes meet the legislative requirements and complete an online declaration.

What and when do I need to notify HMRC?Ø

• Any new share plan arrangements that require reporting.
• A company has until 6^th July following the tax year in which the scheme was established to notify HMRC of its existence and file a share plan return. A share plan return is required for each and every arrangement that has been registered.
• New grants of EMI options – remember that all EMI options must be registered with HMRC within 92 days of the date of grant. The EMI needs to be registered online before HMRC can be notified of a specific award.
• Don’t forget the non-tax advantaged arrangements. If you have UK employees who have received options or subscribed for shares, HMRC needs to be notified and a return must be filed.

HMRC do not send reminders to file a return, but they will issue automatic penalties for failure to file on time. A return is needed each and every year following the registration of the arrangement.

RM2 act as ERS agents for our administration clients and file the returns on their behalf.

Penalties for late returns

The first penalty of £100 will usually be issued by the end of July if the return has not been received by 6th July.

Additional automatic penalties of £300 will be charged if the return is still outstanding on 6^th October, and a further £300 if it’s still outstanding 6 months after that date. If a return is still outstanding 9 months after the 6^th July, daily penalties of £10 a day may be charged.

If you need help with your returns, or simply want a review of your share plan give us a call on 0208 949 5522 or email enquiries@rm2.co.uk