Interest rates are a powerful lever in our economy. Increase rates and economic activity tends to slow down, and vice versa if interest rates fall. The recent hikes in rates, to control inflation, were reversed recently when the Bank of England (BoE) reduced rates to 5% (from 5.25%). The following notes are a summary of recent BoE commentary on this topic. The...
Rachel Reeves announcements since the election
Since Rachel Reeves was appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer in May 2024, she has made several significant announcements aimed at addressing the UK's economic challenges as well as the much publicised tax changes already described in previous posts on our blog. Her primary focus has been on fiscal responsibility, economic stability, and reforming key areas of public policy. Economic Policy and Public...
Private pension contributions
Tax relief on private pension scheme contributions is a significant incentive in the UK, encouraging individuals to save for retirement. Here’s how it works according to GOV.UK: Basic Rate Tax Relief (20%): If you are a basic rate taxpayer, your pension contributions receive tax relief at 20%. For example, if you contribute £80 into your pension, the government adds £20, making...
DWP reforms
Liz Kendall recently set out how Britain’s system of employment support must be fundamentally reformed to tackle the “most urgent challenge” of spiralling economic inactivity. In a Department for Work & Pensions press release issued 23 July 2024 it was announced: Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall will use landmark first speech to set out the Government’s plans to reverse dire labour...
Opportunity knocks for holiday lets owners
From April 2025, the present tax breaks enjoyed by owners of Furnished Holiday Lets (FHLs) will cease and FHL income and gains will be taxed in the same way as other property businesses. Currently, FHL owners benefit from tax advantages, as compared to non FHL owners, in four key areas: exemption from finance cost restriction rules (which restrict loan interest to the...
What is the position now re private school fees
The following notes are copied from draft legislation published by HMRC, to be included in the Finance Bill 2024-25. As of 1 January 2025, all education services and vocational training supplied by a private school, or a “connected person”, for a charge will be subject to VAT at the standard rate of 20%. Boarding services closely related to such a supply...
Muras Matters: Changes To VAT Registration Details Must Be Made Online
Background From 5 August 2024, any changes a business wants to make to its VAT registration details must be done online only. Previously form VAT484 could be used to update any details, including change of address. The change is part of HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) measures to address fraudulent attempts to gain access to businesses’ VAT repayments. Detail With effect from 5 August...
Taxing Times
In a recent announcement to parliament, the Chancellor confirmed the current year deficit in the government finances of £22bn. She set out some of the reductions in public expenditure to close the deficit but hinted that there may be tax increases required to balance the books. Specific measures announced Aside from requesting budget savings from her ministerial colleagues, Rachel Reeves confirmed the following: The...
Thinking of selling your business?
Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) applies to the sale of a business, shares in a trading company or an individual’s interest in a trading partnership. When the relief is available, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) of 10% is payable in place of the standard rate. This can mean a substantial CGT saving for someone looking to exit their business. There are a...
Child benefit for 16 to 19 year olds
The weekly child benefit rates for the only or eldest child in a family is currently £25.60 and the rate for all other children is £16.95. Taxpayers entitled to child benefit should be aware that HMRC usually stops paying child benefit on 31 August following a child’s 16th Birthday. Under qualifying circumstances, the child benefit payment can continue until a child...