Having a reasonable excuse can be a get-out-of-jail-free card if you are charged a tax penalty. However, there is no statutory definition of the term, and what might constitute a reasonable excuse for one person…
Keeping it in the family – tax saving salary strategies
An easy way to reduce a business’s tax bill – and also increase the amount of funds withdrawn from the business – is to put a family member on the payroll. Of course, the salary…
Universal Credit eligibility expands to higher rate taxpayers
Autumn Budget reforms have created a surprising clash of benefits and income tax. The Covid-19 pandemic was the first time many people utilised Universal Credit (UC) for the first time – between February and May…
Changes afoot for Basis period tax rules
Although it looks like the next Budget will be pushed back to spring 2022, several tax changes are already on the cards, some more certain than others. The government’s fast progress with reform of the…
Some ‘new’ tax year opportunities
"A bit late in the day, Femi" I hear you thinking. But is it? Some tax planning should happen before the end of the tax year; but the start of a new tax year also…
HMRC’s April interest rate cut
HMRC’s official rate of interest has been cut from 2.25% to 2% from 6 April 2021. This will affect any directors or employees who have a beneficial loan from their employer, as well as directors…
Missing out on tax-free childcare?
By setting up an online childcare account, you can get a government top-up to help with the costs of childcare. However, thousands are missing out on this payment. Tax-free childcare is worth up to £500…
Brain teaser: should you incorporate?
The planned increase in corporation tax has changed some of the mathematics on incorporation. The Budget announced a significant change to corporation tax from 2023: Small companies, with profits of up to £50,000, would continue…
Covid-19 relief measures extended again
The latest, and hopefully last, lockdown is not due to be completely lifted until at least 21 June, so it was no surprise to see Covid-19 relief measures extended in the Budget on 3 March.…
Get Ready for 2021-2022
Taking some time to start planning for the 2021/22 tax year might be worth the effort. While there is often a focus on planning for the end of the tax year, much less attention is…