Crucial Updates for Employers: Navigating the 2024 Return of Earnings (ROE) Filing Season and LOG Validity Extensions

The Department of Employment and Labour, through the Compensation Fund, has issued vital administrative adjustments impacting employers nationwide. Farzana Fakir, the Acting Commissioner for the Compensation Fund, released Government Notice No. 3200 on 19 May 2025, detailing changes to the 2024 Return of Earnings (ROE) filing season and the validity of Letters of Good Standing (LOGs). These adjustments, made in accordance with Section 6A of the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COID Act), 1993, are designed to accommodate operational readiness and year-end processing. Understanding these updates is crucial for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties.

Understanding the 2024 Return of Earnings (ROE) Filing Season

The 2024 ROE filing season covers the earnings period from 1 March 2024 to 28 February 2025. Employers are now able to commence their ROE submissions from 1 May 2025. It is paramount for all employers to mark their calendars as the closing date for these submissions is firmly set for 31 July 2025. This extended period provides a valuable window for preparation, but vigilance is required to meet the deadline.

When submitting your 2024 ROE via the online portal, it's not just about the earnings figures. The Compensation Fund explicitly states that specific compulsory supporting documents must be uploaded at the time of submission. These include:

• The Confirmation of Employer Details Form.

• A Detailed Payroll Report. This report must cover the entire period from 1 March 2024 to 28 February 2025 and should contain comprehensive details such as employee names and numbers, ID numbers, types of wages or salaries, and total earnings for each employee. Ensuring the accuracy and completeness of these documents is critical to a smooth submission process.

  
  

Extension of Letters of Good Standing (LOG) Validity

Recognising the need for employers to maintain access to Fund benefits while preparing their 2024 ROE submissions, the Compensation Fund has announced a significant extension for Letters of Good Standing (LOGs). LOGs that were issued for the 2023 assessment year, and would typically expire on 30 April 2025, will now remain valid until 31 May 2025. This administrative adjustment provides a crucial buffer, ensuring compliant employers continue to receive the protection and services offered by the Fund.

The Ramifications of Late Submissions

Employers are strongly encouraged to utilise the extended period to meticulously prepare and submit accurate ROEs, along with all the required supporting documentation. The COID Act, under Section 83(6)(b), outlines clear penalties for non-compliance with submission deadlines. Any ROE submissions made after 31 July 2025 will incur a penalty of 10% of the final assessment. This penalty will become effective from 01 August 2025, serving as a deterrent against procrastination.

In conclusion, these administrative adjustments from the Compensation Fund are crucial for employers to note. By adhering to the revised filing dates for the 2024 Return of Earnings, ensuring all required supporting documents are accurate and uploaded, and taking advantage of the LOG validity extension, employers can remain compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties. The message from the Acting Commissioner is clear: timely and accurate submission is key to seamless operations and continued access to vital compensation benefits.