BUSINESSES in Ludlow and south Shropshire that take on temporary workers over the next few months are being warned not to let paperwork oversights give them the summertime blues.

Andrew Morton who runs TaxAssist Accountants in Ludlow and Craven Arms said businesses that take on temporary staff need to make sure that they keep within the law.

“Local small businesses will be taking on temporary staff throughout this summer and with seasonal pressure on employers’ summer holiday rotas and work schedules, it could be tempting to pay workers cash in hand to cut costs,” he said.

“But employers who scrimp on the paperwork run the risk of hefty financial penalties. Generally, they should follow the same procedure for temporary or student workers as for full-time, or part-time, workers.

“Employers must also make sure that employees are paid the minimum wage appropriate for their age and circumstances. Since April 2017, over-25s have been entitled to a minimum of the National Living Wage of £7.50 per hour.

“HMRC will hold employers liable for any shortfall in tax or pay, and any short-comings in their records. We’re urging local business owners not to let paperwork oversights give them a costly headache this summer.”