Self-Assessment customers at risk of HMRC scams

Beware of fraudsters if you are starting to think about completing your annual tax returns. Self-Assessment customers have become a target for unscrupulous criminals, with some threatening arrest and others promising a sizeable rebate. In the 12 months to August 2022, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) responded to more than 180,000 referrals of suspicious contact […]

Regulations burden lifted for medium-sized businesses

Around 40,000 businesses are now exempt from reporting requirements as the Prime Minister unveils a new plan to boost productivity. Liz Truss has announced that thousands of the UK’s fastest-growing businesses will be released from existing requirements and other regulations. Currently, small businesses are presumed to be exempt from certain regulations. However, many medium-sized businesses […]

Buy-to-let loan interest trap

Although finance costs, predominantly loan interest, are now disallowed as an expense that can be utilised to reduce taxable rental income, these charges do qualify for a tax credit limited to 20% basic rate Income Tax. For example, if your loan/mortgage interest amounts to £10,000 this cannot be used to reduce your rental income. It […]

Winter Fuel Support

If you were born on or before 25 September 1956 you could receive between £250 and £600 to help you pay your heating bills. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’. The amount you receive will include a ‘Pensioner Cost of Living Payment’. This is between £150 and £300. You will only get this […]