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Statutory payments Employers are often surprised by how many different statutory payments exist for employees with children—and more importantly, how much of this cost can be recovered. Understanding these rules is essential for managing cash flow, payroll, and compliance. What statutory payments are available? There are several types of statutory payments related to childbirth and
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Minimum wage workers From April 2026, both the National Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW) are increasing—bringing higher payroll costs for many businesses. If you employ staff on or near minimum wage rates, it’s essential to understand these changes and ensure compliance. New wage rates from April 2026 The updated rates for 2026/27
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Capital allowances update Capital allowances on plant and machinery (P&M) have seen constant change over the years. However, following recent reforms, we are now entering a period of relative stability—with some important updates. If your business is planning to invest in equipment, vehicles, or infrastructure, understanding these rules is key to maximising tax relief and
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VAT on supply of care staff If your business supplies staff—particularly in the care or healthcare sector—getting the VAT treatment right is critical. While staff supply is usually subject to VAT at 20%, there is an important exception for medical care services. However, as a recent tribunal case shows, qualifying for this exemption is far
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Supply of catering services VAT on food is one of the most confusing and disputed areas of UK tax. To many business owners, the rules can seem inconsistent—even absurd. But behind the complexity lies a key risk: Getting the VAT treatment wrong can lead to significant HMRC assessments, interest, and penalties. Why is VAT on
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An unannounced tax rise If you’re a director-shareholder of a close company, overdrawn director’s loan accounts can trigger unexpected tax charges. With changes coming from 6 April 2026, the cost of getting this wrong is increasing—making planning more important than ever. What is the tax charge on director’s loans? If a close company makes a
Read More2025-2026 Tax Review Newsletter Our newsletter can be found here. Below are extended versions of each article. Benefits-in-kind – avoiding unnecessary tax charges Sole traders – basis of assessment, losses and Making Tax Digital Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – allowances, rates and planning considerations Letting property – tax treatment and planning considerations Scope of
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Sole traders – basis of assessment, losses and Making Tax Digital Sole traders and other unincorporated businesses have experienced some of the most significant tax changes in recent years. The move to a new basis of assessment, combined with the introduction of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT), means that forward planning and
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Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – allowances, rates and planning considerations Capital Gains Tax (CGT) applies when you dispose of an asset for more than its cost. Common disposals include the sale of shares, investment property, land, business assets and certain other investments. As with income tax, CGT planning has become more important in recent years
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Letting property – tax treatment and planning considerations Letting property continues to be a common form of investment, but the tax regime for landlords has become progressively more complex and, in many cases, less favourable. Understanding which costs are deductible, how profits are calculated and how future tax changes may affect returns is essential when
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