HMRC is moving ahead with its ‘digital by default’ ambition by pushing VAT registration to online only. Any business unable to use the online registration service will have to call HMRC’s VAT helpline to obtain…
Don’t get caught in the VAT penalties net
The 50th anniversary of the UK’s introduction of VAT was earlier this year, but despite being around for a while, many VAT-registered businesses still find VAT too complex and confusing. No surprise then that more…
Government’s tax take on growth trajectory
Analysis of the projected outcomes of the government’s tax policies show an expected increase to the number of higher rate personal taxpayers, with the corporate tax yield expected to grow substantially. Income tax The default…
Cash basis reform: potential turnover threshold changes
With basis period reform now underway, HMRC is looking at further tax simplification for sole traders and partnerships by increasing the cash basis turnover threshold. The cash basis scheme removes complexities such as accruals and…
New points-based penalties for late VAT returns
A new points-based penalty applies to late VAT returns for VAT periods beginning on or after 1 January 2023. The first monthly return to be affected was the one due by 7 March 2023, with…
The marshmallow paradox – VAT or no VAT?
The biggest marshmallows are in fact VAT free. The intricacies of VAT continue to delight or inflame, with marshmallows the latest food product to come under the spotlight. The outcome of a recent First-Tier Tribunal…
Making Tax Digital: avoiding VAT penalties
From 1 November 2022, VAT-registered businesses that do not yet comply with the Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements will face penalties. Businesses should also be aware of the new VAT penalty regime being introduced from…
Getting in touch: HMRC’s new email facility
Although there is no general facility to contact HMRC by email, it is slowly moving into the 21st century by providing the option to receive an email response. But of course, this comes with a…
Are you on top of Making Tax Digital’s latest developments?
The widening scope of Making Tax Digital (MTD) is highlighting several issues, including the limited availability of the MTD for income tax pilot scheme, and low awareness of the recent expansion of MTD for VAT…
Zero rated food confusion
The distinction between zero-rated food and standard VAT confectionery is a crucial, and complex, one – not helped by what may appear to be apparently arbitrary rulings. Despite its predecessor losing a notorious ruling over…