Taxman adds to the misery of travellers
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.As flights resume after a six-day shutdown, passengers stranded by the volcanic ash crisis face more woes after warnings that employees may struggle to get compensation for their repatriation costs.
Hotel and taxi companies have been making the most of the disruption by inflating prices, leaving many workers facing hefty bills in their efforts to get back to work in the UK. And commercial law firm EMW Picton Howell said that disputes are now flaring up over what can be deemed an allowable "business" expense.
"Unless the employer has expressly agreed that it will cover the repatriation costs, the employer is under no obligation to reimburse the employee," says Louise Holder of EMW Picton Howell.
To make matters worse, the law firm points out that HMRC will want its pound of flesh and will expect tax and National Insurance on any expenses, if the individual was on holiday while stranded.
"It is a real shame that HMRC can't waive its rules for this crisis and insists on increasing the expense bills for companies which want to help repatriate their staff," says Ms Holder.
Employees are advised to speak with their employers to check that any extra travel costs will be met.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments