Further drop in interest rates
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 […]
The importance of Pension Credits this winter
Pension Credit is a benefit you can claim in the UK aimed at providing extra income to pensioners who are on a low income. You may have heard that the new Chancellor will only pay the winter fuel allowance to pensioners who are receiving Pension Credits. In which case make sure you claim, if eligible, […]
Effects of the US presidential election
The American presidential election may have significant effects on the United Kingdom, impacting various aspects of the relationship between the two countries. Here are some key areas where the UK might feel the influence: 1. Trade Relations Post-Brexit Trade Deals: The UK’s ability to negotiate a favourable trade deal with the US is closely […]
Prime Ministers speech
On August 27, 2024, Keir Starmer delivered a pivotal speech from Downing Street, focusing on the deep challenges the UK faces and the direction his government intends to take to address them. Starmer painted a grim picture of the nation’s state, attributing the current crises to the mismanagement and populism of the previous Conservative administration. […]
New regulations for Online Digital Platform Operators
To comply with the new digital platform regulations effective from 1 January 2024, platform operators must register with HMRC. Here are the key details regarding registration and reporting: Who Needs to Register: Any platform operator facilitating the sale of goods, services, accommodation, or transportation within the scope of the new regulations must register with HMRC […]
Tax Diary September/October 2024
1 September 2024 – Due date for corporation tax due for the year ended 30 November 2022. 19 September 2024 – PAYE and NIC deductions due for month ended 5 September 2024. (If you pay your tax electronically the due date is 22 September 2024) 19 September 2024 – Filing deadline for the CIS300 monthly […]
Claim tax deduction for working from home
Employees who are working from home may be eligible to claim a tax deduction on certain work-related bills. If their employer does not cover these expenses or allowances, they can claim tax relief directly from HMRC. You can claim tax relief if you are required to work from home, such as if your job requires […]
Could you claim Pension Credits?
Pension Credits can provide extra income to those over State Pension age and on a low income. The credits were first introduced back in 2003 to help keep retired people out of poverty. The Department for Work and Pensions has launched a Pension Credit awareness drive, urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit […]
Do you have a personal tax account?
HMRC’s Personal Tax Accounts (PTAs) serve as an online tool that enables taxpayers to view and update their information in real time. The PTA can be used for many routine requests and services and help you bypass the need to call or write to HMRC. Every individual in the UK that pays tax has a […]
Update on High Income Child Benefit Charge
Changes to the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) came into effect on 6 April 2024. The income threshold at which HICBC starts to be charged increased to £60,000 (from £50,000). The charge is calculated at 1% of the full Child Benefit award for every £200 (2023-24: £100) of income between £60,000 and £80,000. (2023-24: […]
