Applications for the COVID-19 Support Payment (CSP) opened this morning.  These applications are made through IRD’s online “MyIR” platform.  Once logged, the application can be found under the “I want to” menu.  Then click the third link “Apply For COVID-19 Support” under the “COVID-19 Support” subheading.  See below.

Alternatively, your WK Strawbridge contact will be able to apply on your behalf.

Change in revenue drop measurement period

There has been wide criticism that the CSP does not help businesses such as tourism and hospitality that were already suffering significant turnover drops in the 6 weeks to 15 February 2022.  Late Friday, the Finance Minister reacted by announcing some flexibility in allowing businesses the option of using 5 January 2021 to 15 February 2021 as the comparison period.

However, please note that the 2021 comparison period cannot be used on applications yet.  The Government expects that the changes to allow this option will be available from the 14th of March.

The Government has also announced that applications for the first fortnightly payment will be open for 6 weeks.

The requirements for the CSP have been relatively fluid, so for the latest guidance please visit the IRD landing page at:

https://www.ird.govt.nz/covid-19/business-and-organisations/covid-19-support-payment