Business Resumption Support Scheme open for applications

A new Irish Government-funded Covid support scheme has opened for applications, and will remain open until 30 November.

The Business Resumption Support Scheme (BRSS) is aimed at assisting vulnerable but viable businesses, whose earnings have been impacted due to Covid-19 restrictions. Under the scheme, they can claim a single payment equivalent to three times their average weekly turnover in 2019.

Businesses that have availed of other schemes such as the Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS) can apply for the BRSS once they meet the criteria. They must not, however, have been eligible for assistance under the CRSS for any period between 30 August and 5 September.

The cash payment, representing an advance credit for trading expenses, will be based on three times the sum of 10% of weekly turnover up to €20,000 and 5% above €20,000, capped at a maximum of €15,000.

The business will have to be able to prove to Revenue, which will administer the scheme through ROS, that its turnover between the start of September last year and the end of August this year was no more than 25% of their average weekly turnover in 2019.

Tax clearance will be required and the applicant will have to make a declaration that they are eligible. They will also have to provide or verify certain information about their trading activity and turnover.

A spokeswoman for the Revenue Commissioners said that the BRSS covers a range of businesses, including non-essential retail and personal services such as hairdressers and beauticians. She urged those who think they might qualify to check their eligibility on revenue.ie.