The Cost of Non-Compliance: Right to Work Checks and the Impact on Your Business

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If you haven’t completed right to work checks, the maximum fine has tripling to a whopping £60,000. 💷💷💷

 

As an employer, you have a legal obligation to ensure your employees have the right to work in the UK. Failing to comply with this requirement can lead to severe consequences, both financially and legally. Let’s break down what this means for your business and how you can avoid hefty fines and other penalties.

Understanding the Fines

Employing someone without the right to work did cost you between £15,000 to £20,000 per illegal worker. However from 2024, this maximum fine increasing to whopping £60,000. This significant hike underscores the importance of rigorous compliance.

What’s at Stake?

  • Financial Penalties: The tripling of fines means non-compliance could devastate your business finances.
  • Reputation: Being found guilty of employing illegal workers can tarnish your business’s reputation.
  • Legal Consequences: Employers knowingly hiring individuals without the right to work may face criminal charges, unlimited fines, and up to five years in prison.

How to Comply: Key Steps

To avoid these penalties and safeguard your business, follow these steps to establish a defense against civil penalties:

  1. Manual Right to Work Check
  2. Right to Work Check using an Identity Service Provider (IDSP)
  3. Home Office Online Right to Work Check

Manual Right to Work Check: Step-by-Step

  1. Obtain Original Documents: Get the original versions of acceptable documents.
  2. Verify in Person: Check the documents in the presence of the employee. Ensure authenticity, consistency, and correctness.
  3. Document and Record: Make clear copies of the documents, record the check date, and store them securely for the duration of employment plus two years after it ends.

Be Prepared, Not Scared

With tightening rules and more frequent audits, it’s crucial to have your right to work checks in order. This isn’t about living in fear but being prepared. Ensuring compliance protects your business from fines, legal issues, and reputational damage.

 

If you need help navigating these requirements, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Ensuring your right to work checks are thorough and accurate is essential for protecting your business and staying compliant.  Go HR, we do the HR so you can focus on running your business!