I have a painting business and operate as a sole trader. With the current Covid 19 issues I have no work booked for the next two months or so. Fortunately I have been offered some casual work for the next three months to supplement my income. As soon as my painting jobs pick up I will return to my painting business. Can I get the JobKeeper payment as well as my wages from the new job?
As a sole trader you need to be treated as an “eligible business participate” in relation to your business and as such you need to continue to be actively involved in your painting business. Will you be able to be actively engaged in your business while you have the other job commitments?
The Tax Policy is that you will try to keep your business running, and this is a question of fact.
Note you will not be able to obtain the JobKeeper payment from your new employer because he may not have employed you from 1st March 2020.
Also note that you will not be open to claim the JobKeeper payment in relation to your business if you are employed as a full-time or part-time employee with the new employer. The JobKeeper payment may only be claimed by your own business if you are a CASUAL employee of the other employer.
Note : This answer is based on you being Eligible for JobKeeper.
Courtesy: Stephen Down, Director, AMD Chartered Accountants
