A majority (84%) of employers are now submitting pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) in real time, but confusion still remains about the real-time information (RTI) reporting system, according to research by payroll provider Sage.
The monthly Sage omnibus survey, which questioned more than 680 employers, also revealed that four out of five (81%) respondents have not had to change their processes to accomodate real-time information (RTI) reporting.
From 6 April 2013, employers have been required to send PAYE information to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in real time. In March, HMRC relaxed the arrangements for employers with fewer than 50 employees, allowing them until 5 October 3013 to comply with the legislation.
The research also found that:
- Two out of three (64%) of employers believed that HMRC communications around RTI reporting requirements have been either excellent or good.
- 28% of respondents thought communications had been poor.
- 13% of respondents correctly understood the changes that mean organisations with less than 50 employees only need to submit RTI to HMRC once a month until October 2013 even if they pay weekly.
Lee Perkins, managing director, small business division at Sage (pictured), said: “It’s not surprising that there have been a few high-profile teething problems.
“It is a concern that so many people are still not 100% clear on a scheme that they have to get involved with.
“My advice to employers is if you have any questions or uncertainty speak to your accountant or payroll software provider today.”