HMRC invites hospitality industry to register for Eat Out to Help Out

The Eat Out to Help Out registration service is now live on GOV.UK, allowing businesses to join the scheme announced last week by Rishi Sunak, Chancellor of the Exchequer.

"Restaurants and other eligible establishments are now able to support jobs by signing up to the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme," said Mr Sunak. 

Restaurants, bars, cafes and other establishments who use the scheme will offer a 50 per cent reduction, up to a maximum of £10 per person, to all diners who eat and/or drink-in throughout August.

Customers do not need a voucher as participating establishments will just remove the discount from their bill, while businesses will be able to simply reclaim the discounted amount through an online service, supported by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

"HMRC's quick and easy registration page will soon have you on your way to welcoming back your customers with discounted dining on every Monday to Wednesday throughout August, with a simple process to reclaim these discounts back from the government each week," said Mr Sunak. 

HMRC explained that claims can be made on a weekly basis and will be paid into bank accounts within five working days.

The scheme is open to eligible establishments across the UK and can be used all day, every Monday to Wednesday, between 3 and 31 August 2020.

The Eat Out to Help Out Scheme is expected to deliver support to more than 100,000 businesses, including restaurants, cafes and bars serving food and drink, helping to protect 1.8 million jobs across the UK.