In September 2025, the UK Government launched a limited-time COVID Voluntary Repayment Scheme.
This is a one-off opportunity for individuals and businesses to repay support they may not have been entitled to, before tougher enforcement begins next year.
What Is the Scheme?
A repayment window open until December 2025.
Applies to all COVID support schemes, including:
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS)
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS)
Local and national business grants
Bounce Back Loans and CBILS
Other COVID-era benefits or reliefs
Marketed as a “no questions asked” chance to repay — although this does not guarantee full immunity.
Why Now?
The Government is seeking to recover billions lost during the pandemic due to fraud, error, or overclaiming.
Key points to know:
Over £10 billion is estimated to have been wrongly claimed.
Only a small portion has been recovered so far.
After December 2025, expect stronger enforcement — including criminal investigations, director bans, and compensation orders.
A new fraud reporting portal allows third parties to report suspected misuse.
Who Should Act?
You should consider this scheme if:
You claimed support but later realised you didn’t fully meet the rules.
You can’t justify or document what you claimed.
You kept funds you didn’t actually need.
You’re a company director worried about future scrutiny.
You want to reduce legal or reputational risks.
How to Repay
List all COVID support your business or household received.
Check eligibility against the scheme rules.
Work out what may be owed — the excess or ineligible amounts.
Contact the right authority (HMRC, your local council, or your lender).
Make repayment and keep records of everything.
Get advice if you’re unsure — accountants or legal advisers can guide you.
Risks & Limitations
No full immunity: Serious fraud may still face action even if repaid.
Time-limited: The scheme ends in December 2025.
Loans can be complex: Misuse or inability to repay may lead to insolvency or director liability issues.
Reputation matters: Even with repayment, some businesses may face scrutiny.
Why Act Now?
Reduce your risks before enforcement intensifies.
Show good faith — voluntary action is looked on more favourably.
Protect your credit, reputation, and future business operations.
Avoid larger costs later from investigations or penalties.
Next Steps
Today: Review what support you received.
Soon: Calculate what may need repaying.
Before December 2025: Complete your repayment — the window will not reopen.
👉 If you’re unsure where you stand, now is the time to act. Professional advice could save you far more than it costs.
