Take advantage of the National Insurance holiday for employers of veterans

20th October 2022

HMRC would like to remind employers across the UK that they could save thousands of pounds in National Insurance contributions. Employers can tap into a unique pool of skilled and talented new recruits, if they hire former members of the UK regular armed forces during their first year of civilian employment.

Since April 2021, employers taking advantage of the ‘National Insurance holiday for the employers of veterans' have been able to apply a zero-rate of secondary National Insurance contributions (for that employee) for up to 12 months.

Employers can claim through Full Payment Submissions from April 2022, although retrospective claims for the period April 2021 to April 2022 can also be made. There is no limit to the number of qualifying veterans a single business can employ. Further information on employee eligibility, and the process for claiming the relief is available.

The scheme is designed to encourage employers to look again at the unique skills and experience that former members of the UK armed forces can bring to the workplace. This creates fresh opportunities and supports veterans in making the transition to civilian employment.

We are looking for case studies
The Office for Veterans Affairs are keen to hear from any employers already taking advantage of the scheme and willing to talk about their experience. If you're interested in featuring as a case study, send an email with ‘NHEV case studies’ in the subject to: ovacommsandcopressoffice@cabinetoffice.gov.uk and someone will be in contact to discuss next steps.