Newsletter 192

 

September 2024

In this month’s Enews, we look at the failures highlighted by HMRC’s Charter report and the tax authority’s cut in interest rates. We also update you on tax obligations for crypto investors and calls for action in the Autumn Budget. With news on advisory fuel rates and guidance for employers, there is a lot to update you on.

• HMRC failing on responsiveness, says Charter report
• HMRC sends 'nudge letters' to crypto investors
• HMRC late payment interest cut by 0.25%
• Scrap fuel duty cut, says RAC
• Freelancers want to see fairer, simpler tax system from Autumn Budget
• UK has record number of self-employed workers aged 60 or over
• Advisory fuel rates for company cars
• Latest guidance for employers
• New Employee

HMRC failing on responsiveness, says Charter report

HMRC is failing on the key metrics of responsiveness, ease and accuracy, according to the annual HMRC Charter report.

The report reviewed HMRC's performance against its Charter from April 2023 to March 2024.

The survey received over 1,600 responses, with complaints about service levels a recurring theme.

• 'Being responsive' scored the lowest of the Charter standards, with an average score of just 2.4 out of 10.
• 'Making things easy' and 'getting things right' also scored poorly, at 2.8 and 3.5 respectively.
• The remaining standards – 'being aware of your personal situation', 'treating you fairly', “recognising that someone can represent you', 'mutual respect' and 'keeping your data secure' – scored higher at 4.1, 5.0, 5.7, 5.6 and 6.8 respectively.

Richard Wild, the Chartered Institute of Taxation's (CIOT) Head of Tax Technical, said:

'Significant time is lost every day for members, their clients, and indeed HMRC themselves, due to delays and inefficiencies in dealing with HMRC.

'The three standards on responsiveness, ease and accuracy were by far the lowest scoring, which is disappointing as between them they represent the health of the tax system.

'Businesses are prevented from operating effectively due to the inability to obtain timely registrations or responses. Taxpayers' legitimate refunds are withheld or delayed. Guidance and correspondence from HMRC is misleading or incorrect. All these things are inhibitors on growth and investment.'

Internet link: GOV.UK CIOT website

HMRC sends 'nudge letters' to crypto investors

HMRC has 'sent nudge' letters to crypto investors who it suspects have failed to pay the correct tax on their gains, according to the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT).

Many crypto investors are unaware of their tax obligations due to uncertainty over tax rules and limited understanding of the nature of crypto assets.

A chargeable disposal occurs when individual:

• Sells crypto assets for fiat currency.
• Exchanges one crypto asset for another.
• Uses crypto assets to buy goods or services.
• Gives away crypto assets to someone other than spouse or civil partner (in this instance, the individual is deemed to receive the value of the asset even if they do not actually receive anything).

Gary Ashford, Chair of the CIOT's Crypto Assets Working Group, said:

'Many investors may be unaware that profits from crypto assets are subject to income tax or Capital Gains Tax (CGT) like any other asset, depending on how they're held.

'If you receive a 'nudge letter' from HMRC, it's important to take it seriously. Even those who don't receive a letter should review their crypto activity and file a tax return or use the capital gains real time transaction service if necessary.

'Sometimes tax can be due even where the investor does not think his or her investments have been profitable. Selling, lending or 'staking' crypto assets – or potentially even just transferring assets between crypto sites and portfolios – will usually trigger a disposal in the tax year in question.'

Internet links: CIOT website

HMRC late payment interest cut by 0.25%

HMRC has reduced late payment and repayment interest rates following the cut to the base rate.

The Bank of England cut the base rate to 5.0% on 1 August, the first reduction for over four years.

This has triggered a cut in HMRC interest rates which are pegged to the base rate.

From 20 August, the late payment interest rate was cut to 7.5% from 7.75%, where it had been for 12 months. The repayment interest rate was also reduced to 4.0% from 4.25% from 20 August.

HMRC late payment interest is set at base rate plus 2.5%. Repayment interest is set at base rate minus 1%, with a lower limit - or 'minimum floor' - of 0.5%.

Corporation tax self assessment interest rates relating to interest charged on underpaid quarterly instalment payments dropped to 6.0% from 6.25% from 12 August.

The interest paid on overpaid quarterly instalment payments and on early payments of corporation tax not due by instalments is down by 0.25% to 4.75% from 5% from 12 August.

Internet link: GOV.UK

Scrap fuel duty cut, says RAC

The 5p cut in fuel duty to be scrapped in the upcoming Autumn Budget, according to the RAC

The motoring organisation says that motorists in the UK are 'not gaining any benefit' and retailers have failed to pass on lower petrol and diesel prices to drivers.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently refused to rule out a rise in fuel duty and warned that the Autumn Budget will be 'painful'.

The RAC suggested that average petrol prices should be reduced from 142p per litre to 136p per litre and diesel prices from 147p per litre to 139p per litre.

Simon Williams, Head of Policy at the RAC, said:

'We'd normally be against any increase in duty. But we've long been saying drivers haven't been benefitting from the current discount due to much higher-than-average retailer margins.

'As more and more EVs come on to the roads the government will need to tax drivers differently. We think replacing fuel duty with a pay-per-mile system as soon as possible is the way forward as then the only tax levied on fuel would be VAT. This would give retailers nowhere to hide.'

Internet link: RAC website

Freelancers want to see fairer, simpler tax system from Autumn Budget

Freelancers want to see Chancellor Rachel Reeves use the Autumn Budget to move towards a fairer, simpler tax system, according to the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE).

IPSE’s research found that 80% of freelancers believe that government tax policies, such as IR35, are harming their businesses.

Meanwhile, just under half of freelancers reported having less confidence in the UK's economic outlook for the coming year compared to the past 12 months – down from 63% in findings from Q1 2024.

IPSE’s Director of Policy, Andy Chamberlain, said:

'For the past two years, the impact of record high inflation has been the main story in the business world. But for millions of freelancers, who are our very smallest businesses, the biggest barrier to growth has always been the tax system.

'This is about more than just rates of tax. Convoluted tax rules like IR35 are crushing freelancers and the businesses they've worked so hard to build.

'Rachel Reeves faces her first big test as Chancellor with a Budget in October and has made no secret of the need to raise money. But freelancers will be hoping that the Chancellor is also open to building a fairer, simpler tax system for millions of sole proprietors going it alone.'

Internet link: IPSE website

UK has record number of self-employed workers aged 60 or over

The number of self-employed people aged 60 or over has reached a record level, according to analysis by Rest Less.

These numbers have increased by over a third in the past decade, totalling 991,432 self-employed people aged 60 or over in 2023.

The analysis found that while the number of self-employed workers in their 50s and older has grown since 2021, it is those in their 60s who have set the new high.

The total number of workers who are self-employed is about 4.3 million, after a two-year recovery following a sharp fall during the pandemic, according to the research.

Stuart Lewis, Chief Executive of Rest Less, said:

'With the state pension age soon to be 67 and set to go higher still, many people are choosing to work beyond the point of traditional retirement.

'For many, self-employment is a great option as it allows people to remain active and engaged in the community and workforce whilst also providing greater flexibility – leveraging their skills, experience and network to make an impact.

‘The decision to go self-employed can be driven by wildly different sets of circumstances from people living comfortably and pursuing an entrepreneurial passion to those who are forced to generate an income and have not been able to find a permanent solution in the mainstream workforce.’

Internet link: Rest Less website

Advisory fuel rates for company cars

New company car advisory fuel rates have been published and took effect from 1 September 2024.

The guidance states: ‘you can use the previous rates for up to one month from the date the new rates apply’. The rates only apply to employees using a company car.

The advisory fuel rates for journeys undertaken on or after 1 September 2024 are:

Engine size	Petrol
1400cc or less	13p
1401cc - 2000cc	15p
Over 2000cc	24p
Engine size	Diesel
1600cc or less	12p
1601cc - 2000cc	14p
Over 2000cc	18p
Engine size	LPG
1400cc or less	11p
1401cc - 2000cc	13p
Over 2000cc	21p

HMRC guidance states that the rates only apply when you either:

• reimburse employees for business travel in their company cars
• require employees to repay the cost of fuel used for private travel.

You must not use these rates in any other circumstances.

The Advisory Electricity Rate for fully electric cars is 7p per mile.

If you would like to discuss your company car policy, please contact us.

Internet link: GOV.UK AFR

Latest guidance for employers

HMRC has published the latest issue of the Employer Bulletin. The August issue has information on various topics, including:

• electronic payment deadline falls on a weekend
• P11D and P11D(b) for tax year 2023 to 2024
• supporting employees with changes to the High Income Child Benefit Charge
• pensions for seasonal temporary staff
• getting your new employees on the right pay.

Please contact us for help with tax matters.

Internet link: Employer Bulletin

 

New Employee

We are pleased to announce that we have a new accounting apprentice Joe Pap. Joe has started his AAT qualification with us through CWT. Away from the office he is a Liverpool FC fan and he enjoys participating in several sports including cricket and basketball.

 

Newsletter 191

 

August 2024

In this month’s Enews, we look at the difficult decisions taken by the Chancellor as she set the date for the Autumn Budget. We also update you on the latest on the National Wealth Fund and the Growth Guarantee Scheme. With news on a new online VAT tool and Simple Assessment for pensioners, there is a lot to update you on.

• Chancellor takes difficult decisions as Budget date set
• King's Speech pledges to secure economic growth
• HMRC launches VAT Registration Estimator
• UK announces National Wealth Fund
• British Business Bank launches Growth Guarantee Scheme
• HMRC to send Simple Assessment tax statements to pensioners
• UK's economic recovery putting down roots
• UK Interest Rate Reduction
• Latest guidance for employers

Chancellor takes difficult decisions as Budget date set

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said she was taking difficult decisions after a Treasury spending audit revealed £22 billion of unfunded pledges.

Ms Reeves confirmed that the Autumn Budget will take place on 30 October.

In a statement to Parliament, the Chancellor made a number of announcements but said there would be more to come on tax and spending plans at the Budget.

The Chancellor said that she has inherited a £22 billion hole in the public finances and said urgent work is required to reduce the pressure on finances by £5.5 billion this year and over £8 billion next year.

Ms Reeves announced that the government will cut Winter Fuel Payments to those not in receipt of pension credits or other benefits.

The Chancellor announced a number of immediate savings, including:

• £800 million this year and £1.4 billion next year from scrapping the Rwanda migration partnership and scrapping retrospection of the Illegal Migration Act.
• £70 million this year by cancelling the Investment Opportunity Fund and other small projects.
• £185 million next year from cancelling the Advanced British Standard.
• £785 million next year from stopping unaffordable road and railway schemes.

Ms Reeves also outlined the next steps in delivering tax commitments from Labour’s election manifesto.

This includes ending the VAT tax breaks for private schools from 1 January 2025 to help recruit 6,500 new teachers, as well as replacing the non-domicile regime with a new internationally competitive residence-based regime.

The Chancellor said:

‘This is not the statement I wanted to give today, and these are not the decisions I wanted to make. But they are the right decisions in difficult circumstances.’

Internet link: HM Treasury press release

Image Credit: Number 10 Flickr page

King's Speech pledges to secure economic growth

The first King’s Speech since Labour’s victory in the General Election saw the new government pledge that securing economic growth would be its fundamental mission.

King Charles III delivered the 2024 King's Speech at the State Opening of Parliament and announced plans to accelerate housebuilding and high-quality infrastructure through planning reform.

In the Speech, the government also pledged to:

• Reform the Apprenticeship Levy.
• Establish publicly owned Great British Energy.
• Bring train operators into public ownership.
• Remove the VAT exemption for private school fees.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

‘The government’s clear intention to speed up the planning system for large scale infrastructure can feed that business confidence, if it can be delivered. Measures to increase business resilience, reform of the apprenticeship levy and legislation to support sustainable aviation fuel could also boost the economy.

‘There are still big issues that need to be addressed. Improving our trade relationship with the EU will not be straightforward, and there will need to be detailed consultation with business on the Plan to Make Work Pay.

‘But there is much in today’s speech which shows the voice of business has been heard and that government is introducing measures that benefit firms and help unlock investment. 

‘We want to work in partnership with the government to make this happen and shift the economy out of first gear to get it motoring again.’

Internet links: GOV.UK BCC website

Image source: House of Lords Flickr Page 

HMRC launches VAT Registration Estimator

HMRC has launched a digital tool to help businesses estimate what registering for VAT may mean for them.

The VAT Registration Estimator helps to show businesses when their turnover could require them to register for VAT and its effect on profits.

A business must register for VAT if:

• Total VAT taxable turnover for the previous 12 months is more than £90,000.
• Turnover is expected to go over the £90,000 VAT threshold in the next 30 days.
• They are an overseas business not based in the UK and supply goods or services to the UK (or expect to in the next 30 days) – regardless of VAT taxable turnover.

A VAT-registered business must charge VAT on eligible sales and can usually reclaim it on eligible purchases.

Jonathan Athow, HMRC Director General for Customer Strategy and Tax Design, said:

'We know that the majority of our customers want to get their tax right. We have listened to what businesses have said and the new tool is designed to help them understand VAT registration, including when they might be required to register.'

Internet link: GOV.UK

UK announces National Wealth Fund

The UK government is planning a National Wealth Fund to stimulate private sector investment backed by £7.3 billion in funding through the UK Infrastructure Bank (UKIB).

Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds have instructed officials to immediately begin work to create the new National Wealth Fund by bringing together the work of the UK Infrastructure Bank and the British Business Bank to unlock private sector investment to drive growth.

Under the plans, the National Wealth Fund will bring together key institutions and will target investors in a bid to ‘mobilise billions more in private investment and generate a return for taxpayers’.

An additional £7.3 billion of funding will be allocated through the UKIB so investments can start being made immediately focusing on priority sectors, including green and growth industries, and catalysing private investment. This funding is in addition to existing UKIB funding.

The Chancellor said:

‘This new government is getting on with the job of delivering economic growth. I have been clear that there is no time to waste.

‘I have previously committed to establishing a National Wealth Fund. I am now going further by bringing together key institutions.

‘We need to go further and faster if we are to fix the foundations of our economy to rebuild Britain and make every part of our country better off.

‘That is why in less than a week we are establishing a new National Wealth Fund and bringing together the key institutions that will help unlock investment in new and growing industries.

‘Britain is open for business – and the work of change has begun.’

Internet link: GOV.UK

British Business Bank launches Growth Guarantee Scheme

The British Business Bank has launched the Growth Guarantee Scheme to help smaller businesses access finance.

The Growth Guarantee Scheme is the successor to the Recovery Loan Scheme and is expected to support around 11,000 smaller businesses.

The British Business Bank has so far accredited 41 lenders for the scheme which will run until March 2026.

The scheme supports term loans, overdrafts, asset finance, invoice finance and asset-based lending facilities. Not all lenders will be able to offer all products.

Minimum facility sizes start at £1,000 for asset finance, invoice finance and asset-based lending and £25,001 for term loans and overdrafts. The maximum facility sizes are up to £2 million per business.

Martin McTague, National Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said:

'We are delighted that the British Business Bank has officially launched the Growth Guarantee Scheme, to get much-needed finance to start-ups and scale-ups, so they can grow.

'The new scheme will help small firms get the funding they require to be able to achieve their dreams.

'The Growth Guarantee Scheme will be an important part of the funding landscape for small firms, whose growth will be an indispensable ingredient in overall economic recovery in the UK.'

Internet link: British Business Bank website FSB website

HMRC to send Simple Assessment tax statements to pensioners

HMRC will send Simple Assessment tax statements to pensioners in the next few weeks.

The combination of frozen tax thresholds and a substantial increase to the state pension has led to many more pensioners being dragged into paying income tax for the first time.

The last government froze the personal allowance at £12,570 until 2028.

The full new state pension saw a 10% increase in April 2023 to over £10,600 annually, followed by another 8.5% rise in April 2024, taking it to more than £11,500 per year.

HMRC says that pensioners will receive a Simple Assessment where there is an underpayment of income tax for a tax year that cannot be collected automatically via PAYE and they are not subject to income tax self assessment.

An underpayment of income tax can result from:

• pensioners who receive income from the State Pension, occupational pensions, employment pensions, and most taxable state benefits
• pensioners with up to £10,000 of untaxed income (for example, from savings or investments).

HMRC will use the information it already holds and information supplied from banks and building societies about people’s income and tax situation.

The tax authority will calculate any tax owed or refund due and the Simple Assessment tax statement will show the calculation.

HMRC says taxpayers will need to check that their Simple Assessment statements are correct before paying any tax due.

Please contact us for advice on Simple Assessment matters.

Internet links: GOV.UK

UK's economic recovery putting down roots

The UK's economic recovery is finally putting ‘down roots’ after GDP grew faster than expected in May, says the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

The UK economy expanded by 0.4% in May, rebounding from zero growth in April, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The growth figures were helped by a strong performance from retailers and the construction industry, added the ONS.

Ben Jones, CBI Lead Economist, said:

'The latest data shows that the UK's economic recovery is starting to put down roots. While growth in May was driven by a rebound in sectors such as retail and construction, which were hit by poor weather earlier in the spring, recent months have seen activity creeping up across a wide range of sectors.

'The new Labour government will benefit from some economic tailwinds going forward, with consumer confidence rising as lower inflation and strong wage gains support household incomes. However, many firms remain cautious about the near-term outlook.

'While the outcome of the election will help dispel some of the recent uncertainty, it could take a turning of the interest rate cycle for the recovery to really bed in.

'The new government's focus on making growth a priority is welcome. However, to put the economy on a pathway to long-term, sustainable growth, we need to see concrete actions to deliver that vision within the next 100 days.'

Internet links: ONS website CBI website

UK Interest Rate Reduction

The Bank of England has cut interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point, from 5.25% to 5%, which is the first reduction since the start of the pandemic in March 2020.

The Bank of England governor, Andrew Bailey, said inflationary pressures had “eased enough” to enable the first cut since the Bank stopped increasing borrowing costs this time last year.

However, Bailey also stated that savers and borrowers should not expect large reductions over the coming months, amid concerns about ongoing risks to the UK economy. “We need to make sure inflation stays low and be careful not to cut interest rates too quickly or by too much. Ensuring low and stable inflation is the best thing we can do to support economic growth and the prosperity of the country.”

Internet link: Bank of England Website

Latest guidance for employers

HMRC has published the latest issue of the Employer Bulletin. The July issue has information on various topics, including:

• PAYE Settlement Agreement calculations 2023 to 2024
• paying Class 1A National Insurance contributions
• improving the Self-Serve Time to Pay service for PAYE and VAT customers
• self assessment threshold change
• Spotlight 64 - warning for employment agencies using umbrella companies
• employment-related securities — end of year return deadline for employee share schemes.

Please contact us for help with tax matters.

Internet link: Employer Bulletin

 

A steady rise in UK Company Registrations

 

A steady rise in UK Company Registrations

Companies House have released data for the period April to June 2024

There were5.4 million companies on the register at 30 June  an overall rise of 49,000 in the 3 month period.

This takes into account over 162,000 dissolutions and liquidations over the same time.

The period in question was shortly before the General Election took place and showed a certain level of confidence moving forward.

It will be interesting to see the impact on the numbers during the first quarter of the new Government having taken office.

Newsletter 190

 

July 2024

In this month’s Enews, we look at what businesses want following the General Election and the latest on the UK economy. We also examine the tax gap and take a look at HMRC’s lack of enforcement on the enablers of offshore tax evasion. With warnings on the EU trade deal and the UK’s business investment, there is a lot to update you on.

• Business ready to work in partnership with Labour government
• Tax gap at record high
• HMRC has not fined a single enabler of offshore tax evasion
• UK economy grew by more than previously estimated during first quarter
• Average earnings just £16 a week higher than 2010
• EU trade deal not working for UK business, warns BCC
• UK's investment rates worse than every other G7 country
• Savers dangerously underestimating minimum cost of retirement

 

Business ready to work in partnership with Labour government

The UK’s business groups have pledged to work in partnership with the new Labour government to revitalise the nation’s economy.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is the new Prime Minister after leading the party to a decisive win in the General Election.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

 ‘Congratulations to the Labour Party on their victory after a long and hard-fought campaign.

‘The public have delivered them a clear and decisive parliamentary majority – hopefully they will use this mandate to provide the stability and certainty businesses crave.

‘How we revitalise our economy was hotly debated throughout the past six weeks, and it is encouraging to see they have many policies which clearly align with our recommendations.

‘But after a gruelling election the really hard work starts now. We need to see action from day one on pulling together a coherent industrial strategy for the long-term, which places a strong emphasis on harnessing green innovation.

‘Closing the skills gap, growing exports, boosting productivity and harnessing the power of AI won’t happen overnight.’

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) also congratulated Starmer and Labour on their victory.

Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Executive, said:

‘Delivering sustainable growth should be the defining mission for the new government. Business stands ready to bring its innovation, ideas, and investment to make that shared mission a reality.

‘Building a partnership for prosperity between government and business holds the key to unlocking a revitalised pitch to global investors.

‘By working with business, the new government can deploy the capability and capacity of industry to deliver the connected transitions across net zero, the digital economy, and the future of work needed to put the economy on a pathway to sustainable growth.’

Internet link: BCC website CBI website

Tax gap at record high

The UK's tax gap estimate rose to a record to £39.8 billion in 2022/23 as small businesses accounted for almost two thirds of unpaid tax, according to HMRC's data.

The tax gap was 4.8%, which is the difference between the amount of tax that should be paid to HMRC and what is actually paid.

The tax gap estimate for corporation tax for small businesses rose to £10.9 billion, while the tax gap for total corporation tax was £13.7 billion.

John Barnett, Chair of the Chartered Institute of Taxation's Technical Policy and Oversight Committee, said:

'Critics of HMRC can point to a record amount – nearly £40 billion – not being collected, but HMRC can legitimately point out that they are bringing in a record share of the expected tax take.

'That both these things can be true simultaneously tells us more about current tax levels than anything else.

'These figures show there is plenty of work for HMRC to do in a range of areas to reduce the tax gap. However, we should not lose sight of the fact that their record, collecting more than 95% of tax due, compares well internationally.'

Internet links: GOV.UK Chartered Institute of Taxation website

HMRC has not fined a single enabler of offshore tax evasion

HMRC has not fined a single enabler of offshore tax evasion in five years, data released in response to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request has revealed.

This is despite HMRC having landmark powers, which were introduced in 2017, to impose hefty fines.

The data, which was released to the Bureau of Investigative Journalism (TBIJ), suggests that HMRC is failing to target the creators of offshore tax evasion schemes and instead pursues clients of such schemes.

According to the FOI request, HMRC has not fined a single partnership or company for enabling tax evasion since the change in the law in 2017.

Michelle Sloane, a tax disputes partner at law firm RPC, said:

‘Enablers were and still are a big focus for HMRC. But these figures show their rhetoric on tackling enablers … is clearly not being followed through with action.’

A spokesperson for HMRC said:

'We have a strong track record in tackling offshore non-compliance. Since the launch of our No Safe Havens strategy in 2019, we have secured almost £700 million from offshore initiatives.'

Internet link: TBIJ website

UK economy grew by more than previously estimated during first quarter

The UK economy grew by more than initially estimated at the start of this year, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The economy grew by 0.7% between January and March 2024, up from the previous figure of 0.6%. Growth in the UK services sector helped to push it even higher, the ONS said.

The positive news on growth followed the UK inflation rate falling to its lowest level in almost three years.

According to the ONS, the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by 2% in the year to May 2024, down from 2.3% in April.

The data showed that whilst prices are still rising, they're increasing at their slowest pace since July 2021.

David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said the data is ‘a further sign that the UK is exiting the inflation crisis which began in late 2020’.

He continued: ‘It provides additional weight for an interest rate cut in the coming months, something which will be welcomed by firms of all shapes and sizes.

'Our research has shown that a steadily declining number of businesses are concerned about inflation, from a record peak of 84% in mid 2022. This is positive news, but prices are not falling, just rising more slowly, and the economic outlook remains challenging.'

Internet links: ONS website ONS website BCC website

Average earnings just £16 a week higher than 2010

Real average earnings are just £16 a week higher than they were 14 years ago, according to research conducted by the Resolution Foundation.

The think tank said that the UK's labour market backdrop to the General Election is a prolonged pay squeeze that has left real average wages today just £16 a week higher than in 2010. It stated that this has been caused by three shocks to pay packets in little over a decade, including the financial crisis, the Brexit referendum and the cost-of-living crisis.

According to the Resolution Foundation, in the 14 years prior to the 2010 election, average real wages grew by £145 a week in total.

Hannah Slaughter, Senior Economist at the Resolution Foundation, said:

'Britain's prolonged pay depression has left average earnings just £16 a week higher than they were back in 2010, despite the welcome return of rising real wages in recent months.

'Worryingly, Britain's decade-long jobs boom during the 2010s has also gone bust, with the UK one of only a handful of countries where employment has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels.'

Internet link: Resolution Foundation website

EU trade deal not working for UK business, warns BCC

The UK government must stop ‘walking on eggshells’ around improving EU trade ties, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has warned.

The new government must improve the current EU-UK trade and co-operation deal in order to boost economic growth, adds the BCC.

Businesses have criticised the additional red tape and increased costs that Brexit has placed on firms importing and exporting goods to and from the continent.

Importers of food and plants have been hit by charges associated with new Brexit border checks brought in at the end of April.

Other businesses have complained that the increasing divergence on standards, such as those around construction products, has made it more expensive for UK companies to get their products certified for sale on the continent.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC said:

‘I’m not here to look backwards, I’m here to help build a better future for our business leaders and entrepreneurs. We must stop walking on eggshells and start saying it how it is. The current plan isn’t working for our members.  

‘The EU is the UK’s largest market, accounting for 42% of all our exports. Leaving the EU has made it more expensive and bureaucratic to sell our goods and services across the Channel. But better trading terms are possible if the UK government and the EU reach agreement in areas of mutual benefit for business on both sides.

‘A better deal is best for everyone.’

Internet link: BCC website

UK's investment rates worse than every other G7 country

The UK has the lowest rates of investment of any other country in the G7, according to analysis by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR).

It found that, compared to the USA, Germany, France, Italy, Canada and Japan, the UK was in last place for business investment in 2022.

The IPPR also revealed that the UK has been bottom of the G7 league for investment in 24 out of the last 30 years. It said that the UK has the lowest rates of investment of any G7 economy, and that it ranks 28th out of 31 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries for business investment.

According to the IPPR, countries such as Hungary, Slovenia and Latvia attract higher levels of private sector investment than the UK as a percentage of GDP.

Dr George Dibb, Associate Director for Economic Policy at the IPPR, said:

'If the economy is an engine, then investment is its fuel. The UK's dire productivity performance is the single biggest driver of our dire living standards. Without resources flowing into new investment, it's hard to see how UK economic performance can improve.'

Internet link: IPPR website

Savers dangerously underestimating minimum cost of retirement

UK savers are dangerously underestimating the minimum amount needed to retire, according to research from pension provider PensionBee.

A survey of 1,000 working-age UK adults showed that 23% were unsure of the total pension pot size needed to achieve the retirement income they desire.

Pension Bee said that, according to the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association's (PLSA) Retirement Living Standards, a pension pot of £150,000 would only fund an individual's minimum retirement standard for ten years. Pension Bee suggested that working-age adults could be underestimating the true cost of retirement.

49% of those polled estimated that they would require a pension pot of around £250,000 or more. However, Pension Bee found that there was a lack of clear consensus in regard to desired annual income in retirement.

Becky O'Connor, Director of Public Affairs at Pension Bee, said:

'It's hard to plan for retirement without an idea of how much you might need, yet most Brits seem to be unaware of - or worse, dangerously underestimate - the true cost of retirement.

'A good pension pot is one that can provide enough money for the duration of retirement. As this exact amount will vary based on individual circumstances, pension calculators can be a helpful tool in setting financial goals and adjusting behaviours to achieve them.

‘However, one rule is broadly true: the earlier individuals start paying into a pension, the more likely they are to be able to afford their desired lifestyle, as their pension has longer to grow and the amount they’re required to save each month reduces.’

Internet link: PensionBee website

 

Newsletter 189

 

June 2024

In this month’s Enews we look at the business to the upcoming General Election and what an HMRC error could mean for the state pension of the self-employed. We also update you on issues with HMRC’s phone lines and early filers of tax returns. With the UK’s latest economic data and the new advisory fuel rates, there is a lot to update you on.

• Next government will need to build trust between HMRC and self-employed
• Revitalise ‘Brand Britain’, says CBI
• HMRC error means self-employed workers could lose out on state pension
• Taxpayers spend total of 800 years waiting to speak to HMRC
• Retirees report £119,000 shortfall in pension savings
• 300,000 file tax returns in the first week of the tax year
• Inflation falls after UK moves out of recession
• Advisory fuel rates for company cars
• Trevor Walker 1930-2024

Next government will need to build trust between HMRC and self-employed

The next government must take a direct hand in rebuilding trust between HMRC and the self-employed, according to the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE).

The call is part of IPSE’s manifesto for the General Election on 4 July.

Under its proposals, a Cabinet minister would be charged with directly overseeing the tax office. Taxpayers would also be offered more recourse when the department has acted carelessly or unfairly.

The manifesto also calls for the prevention of ‘obscenely’ long payment terms and the scrapping of the off-payroll rules.

IPSE also wants to see an end to shortfalls in support for self-employed parents and better incentives for people to adopt side hustles.

Derek Cribb, IPSE’s CEO, said:

‘The self-employed vote is very much up for grabs at this election – more than at any election in living memory.

‘The sector is bursting with potential to get more people working, plug skills gaps and grow the economy. But this potential is being squandered by the devastating impact of late payments, careless tax enforcement, and a lack of proactive policymaking catered to the millions of people who work for themselves.

‘At this election, the party that fully embraces the self-employed stands to gain their support. The proposals in our manifesto offers the parties the chance to do just that.’

Internet link: IPSE website

Revitalise ‘Brand Britain’, says CBI

Revitalising ‘Brand Britain’ in its first 100 days in office should be a priority for the party that wins the General Election, says the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

In its Business Manifesto, the business group has mapped out the steps it says the next government can take to redefine the UK’s growth trajectory.

The CBI says the next government will need to improve the pitch for private investment with a plan for sustainable growth.

Its key recommendations include a cutting-edge trade and investment strategy and unlocking the power of the UK regions.

Rain Newton-Smith, CBI CEO, said:

‘A new government of whatever colour provides an opportunity to shift gear and prioritise the long-term decisions that can deliver a decade of sustainable growth.

‘Top of the in-tray should be sharpening the investor pitch for ‘Brand Britain’ – ensuring we are at the very top of the league table when it comes to investment. At the same time, a focus on building momentum behind the ‘big three’ enablers across tax, planning and the labour market within the first 100 days can give firms a clear flightpath for growth.

‘We want to see a new government deliver a bold pitch to investors across the globe, restore the UK’s competitiveness, and double down on our climate commitments and opportunities.’

Internet link: CBI website

HMRC error means self-employed workers could lose out on state pension

An HMRC error could mean that some low-income, self-employed workers lose out on their entitlement to National Insurance-related benefits like the state pension, warns the Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG).

The issue centres around the payment of voluntary Class 2 National Insurance contributions (NICs) that can be made by self-employed taxpayers with profits under £6,725.

These voluntary contributions are usually paid by taxpayers as part of their self assessment return and must reach HMRC by 31 January following the end of the tax year.

HMRC then automatically transfers the NICs to the taxpayer's National Insurance record to be counted towards their entitlement to benefits.

However, it appears that HMRC did not initiate the transfer until after the 31 January deadline for the 2022/23 tax year resulting in the voluntary contributions being rejected and automatically refunded to the taxpayer.

In the absence of any action, this could mean that taxpayers miss a qualifying year of NICs.

Antonia Stokes, LITRG Technical Officer, said:

'The issue is unique to the year in question, and our advice to those who might be affected is to first check to see whether they have received a refund from HMRC.

'We would also like to see HMRC acknowledge the error and proactively offer help to those taxpayers who have been affected, in line with HMRC's own charter commitments. However, until they do so, there are practical steps that taxpayers can take to maintain their entitlement to National Insurance-related benefits.'

Internet link: LITRG

Taxpayers spend total of 800 years waiting to speak to HMRC

UK taxpayers spent the equivalent of 800 years on hold to HMRC in 2022/23, according to a report published by the National Audit Office (NAO).

The report found that funding pressures, job cuts and a push to reduce costs by encouraging people to manage their tax affairs online had all led to a poor call-handling performance by HMRC.

The average time spent waiting on the phone to speak to an adviser in the 11 months to February 2024 was almost 23 minutes - well above the five minutes recorded in 2018/19.

Altogether taxpayers spent 7 million hours, or 798 years, on hold to HMRC in 2022/23, according to the report.

Customer service is in a 'declining spiral' at HMRC, which had not met its goals for responding to taxpayer correspondence or telephone calls for several years, the NAO added.

The government has recently announced an extra £51 million in funding to help HMRC improve its telephone helplines.

Gareth Davies, Head of the NAO, said:

'HMRC's telephone and correspondence services have been below its target service levels for too long.

'While many of its digital services work well, they have not made enough of a difference to customers, some of whom have been caught in a declining spiral of service pressures and cuts. HMRC has also not achieved planned efficiencies.

'HMRC must allow more time for these services to bed in and understand the difference they make before adjusting staffing levels.'

Internet link: NAO website

Retirees report £119,000 shortfall in pension savings

UK adults face a significant shortfall in their pension savings at retirement compared to what they wanted to retire on, according to research from Standard Life.

Standard Life's Retirement Voice Report found that, on average, retirees had hoped to build up a pension pot of £250,000. However, the average amount that they accumulated by retirement was £131,000 – leaving a £119,000 shortfall.

Based on current annuity rates, a pot of £250,000 could lead to an income of £1,007 monthly, or £12,091 a year, assuming a retirement age of 66.

A pot of £131,000 could result in a monthly income of £527 in retirement, or £6,332 yearly - £480 a month, or £5,759 a year less.

However, even the not insignificant £250,000 pot falls short of a 'moderate' standard’ of living in retirement, according to the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association.

Dean Butler, Managing Director for Retail Direct at Standard Life, said:

'It can be hard to work out how much you need to save to achieve your desired standard of living in retirement, particularly earlier on in your career. It's even harder to stick to it, as everyday expenses and those one-off costs that come up in life constantly threaten to move long-term saving down the priority list.

'Clearly there's a big gap between what people hope to save, and what they actually do – this is unsurprising, particularly when looking at it during a cost-of-living crisis, however the result can be a significantly reduced standard of living in retirement.'

Internet link: Standard Life website

300,000 file tax returns in the first week of the tax year

Almost 300,000 self assessment taxpayers filed their return in the first week of the new tax year, HMRC has revealed.

The early filers were almost 10 months ahead of the 31 January 2025 deadline.

Almost 70,000 people filed their return on the opening day of 6 April this year.

HMRC is encouraging people to file early and avoid the stress of last-minute filing.

The tax authority says early filing can also help with budgeting. A budget payment plan helps spread the cost of tax bills with weekly or monthly payments.

In addition, refunds of overpaid tax will be paid as soon as the return has been processed.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Director General for Customer Services, said:

'Filing your self assessment early means people can spend more time growing their business and doing the things they love, rather than worrying about their tax return.

'You too can join the thousands of customers who have already done their tax return for the 2023-24 tax year by searching 'self assessment' on GOV.UK and get started today.'

Internet link: HMRC press release

Inflation falls after UK moves out of recession

The rate of UK inflation fell to 2.3% in the year to April, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Inflation is down from 3.2% in March and is the lowest level since September 2021.

However, it is still above the Bank of England's 2% target. The drop was driven by falling gas and electricity prices after the energy price cap was lowered by Ofgem.

The drop in inflation followed news that the UK economy grew by 0.6% between January and March, according to the ONS.

It means that the country officially emerged from recession with growth led by the services sector.

Despite the improving outlook, the Bank of England held interest rates at 5.25% for the sixth month in a row.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said the fall in the rate of inflation was positive news that increased the likelihood of an interest rate cut in the coming months.

David Bharier, Head of Research at the BCC, added:

'Uncertainty will persist with global conflicts and trade wars threatening supply chains. Real wage costs also continue to grow – our most recent business survey found almost half of firms expect their prices to rise over the next three months, with labour costs cited as the main driver.

'While the outlook may have brightened, the skies aren't yet fully clear. UK firms need to see a long-term vision for the UK economy from politicians, including action on making trade easier, especially with the EU.'

Internet link: ONS website ONS website Bank of England website BCC website

Advisory fuel rates for company cars

New company car advisory fuel rates have been published and took effect from 1 June 2024.

The guidance states: ‘you can use the previous rates for up to one month from the date the new rates apply’. The rates only apply to employees using a company car.

The advisory fuel rates for journeys undertaken on or after 1 June 2024 are:

 

Engine size	Petrol
1400cc or less	14p
1401cc - 2000cc	16p
Over 2000cc	26p

 

Engine size	Diesel
1600cc or less	13p
1601cc - 2000cc	15p
Over 2000cc	20p

 

Engine size	LPG
1400cc or less	11p
1401cc - 2000cc	13p
Over 2000cc	21p

HMRC guidance states that the rates only apply when you either:

• reimburse employees for business travel in their company cars
• require employees to repay the cost of fuel used for private travel.

You must not use these rates in any other circumstances.

The Advisory Electricity Rate for fully electric cars is 8p per mile.

If you would like to discuss your company car policy, please contact us.

Internet link: GOV.UK AFR

Trevor Walker 1930-2024

This month we are sad to report the death of Trevor Walker, one of the founding partners of Walker Thompson in 1985, after a short illness.
Trevor retired from the firm in 2002 although in many respects it seems that it was only yesterday. The legacy which he left within the firm, particularly with regard to taxation has been longstanding and his name will stay on as a testament to his work
A quiet and reserved person, he will be remembered by all the clients with whom he came into contact, many of whom still remain as clients today.
He was an extremely competent linguist speaking various European languages and attempting the more obscure such as Urdu & Chinese Mandarin. Away from the office he was passionate about skiing both on snow and artificial slopes.
He will be missed by all who knew him.

Click here to read an Obituary by Sherod Williams.

Newsletter 188

 

May 2024

In this month’s Enews, we look at the HMRC’s pilot for MTD for Income Tax and the impact of IR35 reforms on contractors. We also examine criticism of R&D tax reliefs and take a look at a new online service for voluntary National Insurance contributions (NICs). With news on the UK’s borrowing figures and the latest HMRC guidance for employers, there is a lot to update you on.

• MTD for Income Tax pilot now live
• IR35 reforms taking their toll on skilled contractors
• Government urged to implement reforms to R&D tax system
• HMRC clarifies tax rules for WFH commuting
• HMRC launches online voluntary NICs payment service
• UK borrowing reduces Chancellor’s wiggle room
• More than seven million adults still struggling to pay bills, finds FCA
• Latest guidance for employers

MTD for Income Tax pilot now live

HMRC's pilot scheme for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment (MTD for ITSA) is now live.

Accountants, agents and individuals are able to sign up to the pilot and test the programme out. The pilot aims to assess the MTD for ITSA reporting environment, with an initial focus on those who are self-employed and landlords with annual income exceeding £50,000. Signing up to MTD for ITSA will become mandatory for individuals with income in excess of this threshold from 6 April 2026.

Those signing up to the pilot will be required to keep digital records and submit quarterly updates on their income and expenditure to HMRC via MTD-compatible software so that HMRC may test and develop the system.

However, after HMRC revised its list of software products that support MTD for ITSA only five are available for the private beta testing of MTD for ITSA.

These are:

• 1 2 3 Sheets Ltd
• Intuit QuickBooks Online
• Sage Accounting
• SE reports
• self assessment direct.

Chosen software must be able to create and store digital records of business income and expenses, send quarterly updates, receive information from HMRC and make your final declaration by 31 January as part of the submission of tax returns.

HMRC recommends checking with the software providers when choosing software to ensure it suits businesses' needs.

Caroline Miskin, Senior Technical Manager at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), said:

'Choosing the right software is a critical decision. Software products do need to comply with HMRC's minimum functional standards but these are quite minimal. This means there will be very significant differences between products.

‘Cost is obviously a major consideration. The list includes some free products, but it is important to check the terms and conditions as well as what functionality is offered. It is disappointing that a wider range of software is not yet available.'

Internet link: GOV.UK

IR35 reforms taking their toll on skilled contractors

One in ten highly skilled freelancers are currently out of work due to the impact of reforms to IR35 tax legislation, according to research published by the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE).

IPSE's survey of more than 1,300 contractors in highly skilled roles found that 21% are not currently working, with half of them attributing this to the impact of reforms to IR35 tax rules.

Meanwhile, 55% of contractors said they had rejected an offer of work in the past 12 months due to it being deemed 'inside IR35' by the client. Furthermore, 24% said they intend to seek contracts overseas this year to escape the rules.

Andy Chamberlain, IPSE's Policy Director, said:

'Three years later, the off-payroll rules are still keeping thousands of highly skilled individuals out of work. It's staggering that the Chancellor is happy for this to continue at a time when economic inactivity is one of his biggest concerns.

'Our findings show that contractors want to prioritise clients who are willing to hire them on a freelance basis, and happy to walk away from those who won't – even if this means not working at all.

'The blame for this impasse doesn't rest with clients – it rests with the culture of fear that is propagated by the IR35 rules. This is a damning legacy for a Chancellor who claims to be on the side of business.'

Internet links: IPSE website

Government urged to implement reforms to R&D tax system

The government is being urged to implement reforms to the Research and Development (R&D) tax relief system in order to avoid hurting small companies by the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce.

A report released by the Chamber found that recent changes by HMRC and a 'wild west' regulatory system in regard to who can act as R&D tax advisers are 'undermining confidence and take-up'.

The Chamber collected a number of case studies and original survey research, which showed that 46% of small companies are deterred from making future claims based on their latest experience.

Chair of the Chamber's R&D Tax Reliefs Task and Finish Group, Steve Elsom, said:

'Our original research into local businesses' experiences shows that the lack of knowledgeable experts at the HMRC, plus the imposition of an overly strict compliance regime is causing many legitimate companies' most recent claims to be delayed and/or refused, with others fearful that previously successful claims from previous years might now be challenged.

'Every right-thinking person applauds the crackdown in fraudulent claims, but HMRC appears to be going to extremes in its definition of the term. Our research showed that companies which might have made a very minor administrative error in their application are counted as fraudulent.’

Internet link: Suffolk Chamber of Commerce website

HMRC clarifies tax rules for WFH commuting

HMRC has updated guidance on when tax relief is available on travel expenses for staff who work from home.

The tax authority is responding to the growth of flexible or hybrid basis working contracts, particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic.

HMRC confirmed that ‘under such arrangements, the employee will have a base office and journeys from home to that location will be ordinary commuting’.

These trips are not eligible for tax relief.

Whether or not an employee’s home is a workplace does not affect the availability of tax relief for travel expenses.

Travelling from home to a permanent workplace is classed as ordinary commuting and not available for tax relief.

HMRC states:

‘Even though it may have been accepted that the employee’s home is a workplace, it does not necessarily follow that they’ll be entitled to tax relief for the cost of travel between their home and a permanent workplace.’

This is because even where working from home is part of the employment contract, this can be due to personal choice and not a requirement of the role. In such cases, travel from home to the office remains private travel.

Travel costs from home to a temporary workplace remain available for tax relief.

Internet link: GOV.UK

HMRC launches online voluntary NICs payment service

HMRC has launched a new online voluntary NICs payment service.

The government says the new service will make it easier for customers to check for and fill any gaps in their National Insurance record to help increase their State Pension.

It also said that the new Check your State Pension service has been enhanced to include an end-to-end digital solution.

The service shows customers by how much their State Pension could increase and outlines the voluntary NICs they would need to pay to achieve this.

The service also allows people under the State Pension age to view gaps in their National Insurance record and pay voluntary contributions to fill the gaps.

Minister for Pensions, Paul Maynard, said:

‘The State Pension is the foundation of income in retirement, which is why we have introduced this new online tool to help simplify boosting it for those who are able to.

‘I would encourage everyone to check their State Pension forecast and to take a look at how they could improve their State Pension award with only a few simple clicks.’

Internet link: GOV.UK

UK borrowing reduces Chancellor’s wiggle room

Higher than expected government borrowing has reduced the Chancellor’s ‘wiggle room’ at a pre-election Budget.

Government borrowing - the difference between spending and tax income - was £120.7 billion in the year to March, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

This was £7.6 billion lower than last year, but £60 billion higher than the year before the pandemic and, critically, £6.6 billion higher than the Office for Budget Responsibility’s (OBR) forecast at the Spring Budget.

High inflation and rising interest rates also contributed to public spending rising by £58 billion for the year, according to the ONS.

Cara Pacitti, Senior Economist at the Resolution Foundation, said:

‘Last year was one of high but falling inflation and rising interest rates, causing both spending and tax receipts to rise in nominal terms compared to the year before.

‘While lower than last year, borrowing is already £6.6 billion higher than forecast at the Spring Budget last month. So far there are no signs of any new fiscal wriggle room emerging that might allow the Chancellor to announce another pre-election Budget in the Autumn.’

Internet links: ONS website Resolution Foundation website

More than seven million adults still struggling to pay bills, finds FCA

Around 7.4 million people in the UK struggled to pay a bill or a credit repayment in January, according to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

The figure is lower than last year but is still significantly higher than before the cost-of-living crisis began.

According to the FCA, in January 2023, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent start of the cost-of-living crisis, the number of people in financial difficulty almost doubled to 10.9 million.

The FCA survey also suggested 5.5 million people had missed a bill or credit payment in the six months to January 2024.

In addition, one in nine people also had no disposable income, the FCA said.

Sheldon Mills, Executive Director of Consumers and Competition at the FCA, said:

'Our research shows many people are still struggling with their bills, though it is encouraging to see some benefiting from the help that's available.

'If you're worried about keeping up with payments, reach out to your lender straight away. They have a range of support options and will work with you to agree the best one for you. You can also find free debt advice through MoneyHelper.'

Internet link: FCA website

Latest guidance for employers

HMRC has published the latest issue of the Employer Bulletin. The March issue has information on various topics, including:

 

•         PAYE Settlement Agreement payment •         reporting expenses and benefits for the tax year ending 5 April 2024 •         mandating the payrolling of benefits in kind from April 2026 •         PAYE tax calculator •         basis period reform — reporting on a tax year basis •         claiming tax relief on work related expenses — don’t get caught out by bad tax advice.

Please contact us for help with tax matters.

Internet link: Employer Bulletin

Newsletter 187

APRIL 2024

In this month’s Enews we look at HMRC’s reversal of its helpline closures and the reaction to the Spring Budget. We also update you on the latest guidance on R&D relief and the latest on the UK economy. With more on the fight against fraud and analysis of the National Minimum Wage, there is a lot to update you on.

• Relief at HMRC’s reversal of helpline closures
• Jeremy Hunt cuts NICs again in the Spring Budget
• Business groups say challenges remain despite encouraging Budget
• New HMRC R&D tax relief guidance 'could be clearer', says ICAEW
• Bank holds interest rates as inflation and economy show improvement
• HMRC's services having a negative impact on SME productivity
• New measures aim to 'break the spell' of fraudsters
• The National Minimum Wage is the single most successful economic policy in a generation, says think tank
• First shoots of Recovery and Business Expansions
• A New Addition to The Walker Thompson Team

Relief at HMRC’s reversal of helpline closures

HMRC’s decision to halt its plans to restrict taxpayer helplines and direct people to online services instead has been met with relief by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

The tax authority had announced that it was closing its self assessment helpline for six months every year. It was also restricting the opening times of its VAT helpline and the usage of its PAYE helpline.

HMRC says it is halting these plans 'in response to the feedback while it engages with its stakeholders about how to ensure all taxpayers' needs can be met'.

The FSB says that more investment in digital and telephone is needed - not a reduction in service.

Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair, FSB said:

‘Small businesses will definitely be relieved that the drastic reduction in HMRC’s helpline opening hours has been paused. We are very glad that HMRC has listened to the chorus of dismay which greeted its initial announcement.

‘While online services are a key part of the communications mix for the tax authority, sometimes there’s just no substitute for a real human on the end of a phone line who can listen, engage, and help untangle issues.

‘Before phone line cuts are considered, HMRC needs to build capacity in its digital services, as if those are improved – with real people online to offer help instead of chatbots – many small firms like to interact with the tax authority this way, as it can be more flexible and available out of hours.’

Internet link: GOV.UK FSB website

Jeremy Hunt cuts NICs again in the Spring Budget

The Chancellor made further changes to National Insurance contributions (NICs) following the cuts made in the Autumn Statement 2023. The rates for NICs will be cut by two percentage points for both employees and the self-employed from 6 April 2024.

This will see Class 1 employee NICs reduced from 10% to 8% from 6 April 2024, down from 12% at the end of last year. Meanwhile, Class 4 self-employed NICs are cut from 9% to 6% from 6 April 2024.

Mr Hunt made a number of other changes that will relieve the tax burden on businesses, families and motorists. He cut the higher rate of capital gains tax on residential property disposals from 28% to 24%. The lower rate will remain at 18% for any gains that fall within an individual's basic rate band.

The threshold for VAT registration will be lifted from £85,000 to £90,000 from 1 April 2024. According to the government, this will mean 28,000 businesses will no longer be VAT registered in 2024/25.

The Budget saw the creation of a new ISA that will allow people to invest in UK-focused assets. The new UK ISA creates an allowance of £5,000. This will be in addition to the £20,000 that can be subscribed into an ISA. The government will consult on the details.

The Chancellor made his cut to NICs possible with a series of tax raising measures. These include the abolition of the Furnished Holiday Lettings regime and Multiple Dwellings Relief, alongside a new duty on vaping and an increase in tobacco duty.

The UK's tax rules for non-UK domiciled individuals will be replaced with a residence-based regime that Mr Hunt says will raise £2.7 billion in revenue.

This new regime will commence on 6 April 2025 and applies UK-wide. Individuals who opt in to the new regime will be exempt from UK tax on foreign income and gains for their first four years of residence in the UK, while the government will make transitional arrangements for existing non-doms.

Internet link: HM Treasury press release

Business groups say challenges remain despite encouraging Budget

The UK’s business groups warned that challenges remain despite the Chancellor delivering an encouraging Spring Budget.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said that while the cut to NICs would ‘boost jobs’ it had failed to ‘shift the dial’ for business.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said:

'Following the Autumn Statement this Budget was always set to deliver less for business, although changes to national insurance will provide some momentum.

'However, beyond this there were no major announcements to help shift the dial on conditions for business. Business confidence is improving but the coming months will remain challenging for many companies. It is vital that the economy remains front and centre of the campaign to come.'

The Institute of Directors (IoD) branded the Spring Budget 'unremarkable' for businesses.

Roger Barker, Director of Policy at the IoD, said:

'First and foremost, business was hoping for a Budget that would maintain a stable and credible policy framework for business. The Chancellor largely delivered that. However, beyond that, there was little in the announcements that can be regarded as a game-changer for business.'

Meanwhile, the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE) said the Chancellor had ‘failed to address the substantive issues holding the self-employed back’.

Andy Chamberlain, Director of Policy at IPSE, said:

‘The self-employed make an enormous contribution to our economy and society, but it could be even greater if the government were to grasp the nettle of IR35 and address the forthcoming impact of Making Tax Digital for Self Assessment.’

Internet link: BCC website IoDwebsite IPSE website

New HMRC R&D tax relief guidance 'could be clearer', says ICAEW

New guidance from HMRC on Research and Development (R&D) tax relief 'could be clearer', according to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).

HMRC's draft guidance covers the restriction applying for contractor payments and payments for externally provided workers (EPWs) where the R&D activity takes place overseas; and the new rules for contracted-out R&D.

The ICAEW's Tax Faculty believes that additional clarity would be helpful on a few of the new points.

It also said that the guidance 'does not fully address the implications of an arrangement between the customer and the contractor that is governed by multiple contracts'. The Institute has called for the guidance to explain how to determine if the contractor took R&D into consideration at the time of the contract when multiple contract dates exist.

The ICAEW also called for clarity on the requirement that the carrying-on of R&D needs to be the primary objective of the customer in engaging the contractor if the customer is to claim the associated R&D tax relief.

Internet link: ICAEW website

Bank holds interest rates as inflation and economy show improvement

The Bank of England held interest rates at 5.25% despite continued falls in the rate of inflation and a return to growth for the UK economy in January.

The Bank's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted by eight to one to hold the base rate at 5.25%, the fifth month in a row that it has stayed at that level.

The Bank said that it needs to be certain that inflation will fall to its 2% target and stay there before making cuts to rates.

David Bharier, Head of Research at the BCC, said the decision to hold rates was widely expected.

He added:

'However, it prolongs the period of uncertainty for firms grappling with high borrowing costs.

'While [the] inflation data showed a further easing, most small businesses know that the economy remains fragile. The interest rate is itself a driver of inflation, as housing, rental, and borrowing costs continue to rise.

'Our most recent forecast expects some cuts to the base rate going forward, potentially falling to 4.5% by the end of the year. But in the meantime, businesses need reassurance from policymakers that there is a clear plan to drive much needed economic growth.'

The Bank’s decision followed the release of data that showed the pace of inflation has slowed.

It fell to 3.4% in February, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

That is down from 4% in January and December, and the lowest rate for nearly two and a half years.

The slower pace of food price rises helped push down overall inflation, along with soft drinks, restaurants and hotels, the ONS said.

This effect was partially offset by petrol prices and rental costs.

Meanwhile, the UK's economy returned to growth in January, according to the ONS.

The economy grew by 0.2% during the first month of 2024 following a fall in output during the previous month.

The economy was boosted by stronger sales in shops and online and more construction activity in January.

The ONS said the services sector led the bounce back after retailers struggled to draw in shoppers in December.

Internet link: BoE website BCC website ONS website ONS website

HMRC's services having a negative impact on SME productivity

The productivity and efficiency of SMEs is suffering as a result of poor HMRC services, according to members of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

In a survey of ACCA members, 66% said that poor HMRC services were having a negative impact on their clients, with small businesses 'bearing the brunt' of this issue.

This is a 14% increase in negative sentiment from the previous ACCA survey in October 2023, demonstrating that SMEs are 'reaching breaking point with the service'.

Glenn Collins, Head of Strategic and Technical Engagement, ACCA UK, said:

'Our members have repeatedly raised that dealing with HMRC is the number one issue they face in their daily work.

'Repeatedly we hear from our members of delays around basic requests such as VAT registration numbers, and a severe lack of skilled staff to handle more complex enquiries. This most recent survey reiterates our previous feedback to the Chancellor and HMRC and shows that in the space of six months service levels have declined even more.

'ACCA will continue to call for the Chancellor to properly fund HMRC, raise the levels of service standards, and to lean on accredited finance professionals wherever possible to ensure accuracy across the board.'

Internet link: ACCA website

New measures aim to 'break the spell' of fraudsters

New measures aim to 'break the spell' of financial fraudsters by giving payment providers more time, according to draft legislation published by the government.

Until now, payment service providers such as banks have generally been required to process payments by the end of the following business day, giving a limited timeline to investigate and alert relevant parties to possible fraud.

The draft legislation will give payment service providers a further 72 hours to investigate payments, but only where there are reasonable grounds to suspect fraud or dishonesty. The legislation has been designed to minimise any impact on legitimate payments.

The UK has seen an increase in authorised push payment fraud over the past few years – in 2022 victims lost £485 million to these scams.

Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Bim Afolami, said:

'Fraudsters spin whole webs of lies and fabricate all sorts of things to convince people to send them money – this legislation will give banks, other payment service providers and law enforcement more time to get in touch with victims and break the fraudster's spell before money is sent.

'The government is absolutely committed to tackling fraud and recognises the impact of this devastating crime on victims – this legislation is another tool in our arsenal to fight fraud.'

Internet link: HM Treasury press release

The National Minimum Wage is the single most successful economic policy in a generation, says think tank

The introduction of the UK’s National Minimum Wage (NMW) in 1999 is the single most successful economic policy in a generation, according to the Resolution Foundation.

The NMW has increased the pay of the UK’s lowest paid workers by £6,000 a year compared to their earnings simply rising in line with typical wages, says a report from the think tank.

The report notes that the policy was introduced 25 years ago against a backdrop of rising pay inequality.

Between 1980 and 1998, hourly pay growth in the UK was twice as fast for the highest earners as it was for the lowest earners.

But since 1999 – when the NMW was brought in – this trend has reversed, and hourly pay inequality has fallen with pay growth for the lowest earners five times that seen by the highest earners.

Nye Cominetti, Principal Economist at the Resolution Foundation, said:

‘The policy was introduced in the face of fierce opposition, but now experiences strong cross-party support. With its current remit ending this year, now is the time to discuss the future of the minimum wage and low pay more widely ahead of the election.

‘Politicians should reflect on why the minimum wage has been so successful – such as the combination of long-term political direction and independent, expert-led oversight – and whether this approach could be broadened to tackle some of the UK’s other low pay challenges.’

Internet link: Resolution Foundation website

First shoots of recovery and business expansions

March has seen our firm engaged upon three separate Corporate Finance transactions.

The first of these proved to be extremely pleasing as it involved the succession plan for a company which I first worked with in the 1970’s. A small, husband and wife engineering firm in Earlsdon, which had later moved to Bayton Road Industrial Estate. George and Mary Harris became friends as well as clients of my then firm Francis Webbs. The firm grew steadily and switched from manual machines to CNC lathes, producing highly specialised parts for readily recognisable products. With the passage of time, son Graham had joined the business and he was followed by his sister Deborah, who was in charge of the accounting and administration. Sadly, George and his wife passed away, but they had left the business in good hands. The company now operates from premises in Crondal Road, Exhall and employs over 30 staff who are literally at the cutting edge of engineering.  March saw the retirement of Deborah and the distribution of ownership between some of the employees who Graham views as the company’s future. Everyone at Walker Thompson wishes Deborah a very happy retirement and wishes the company every possible success for the future.

March also saw the transition in ownership of another longstanding client. Based in Northamptonshire, Kentbrim Ltd operates a residential nursing home. The company has, over time, successfully bought out the shares of four of its’ original investors using a typical process of a Company Purchase of Own Shares. Of the two remaining shareholders, one wished to withdraw and the other was content to stay on and manage the business as part of his own family succession plan. Walker Thompson worked alongside Procure Business Finance to pull together a manageable deal to facilitate the exit of one shareholder whilst ensuring sufficient working capital availability to allow the nursing home to continue serving the community in Northants. As is often the case, the transaction went down to the wire but, with a final shove, we got it over the line.

Finally, we were involved in bringing together the synergies of a Coventry based compressed air supply & service company with the expertise of a senior figure from the chilled air and cooling systems sector. Funded by in house money, a new company was created with control resting with the Managing Director. Within the new company, shares have been distributed in such a manner as to ensure reward for both success and loyalty. The arrangements are now clearly in place to ensure future success and also the continuity of family involvement with the inclusion of another family member.

All three transactions contain elements of planning for the future and an element of passing business through generations. At this point in the economic cycle this is a sign of companies bucking the trend. Government statistics suggest that fewer than 30% of SME’s in the UK reach the second generation whilst less than 10% make it to the grandchildren.

A new addition to the Walker Thompson Team

We are extremely pleased to be able to announce that Hollie Cox, one of our ACCA trainees, gave birth to a son, Freddie on 19 March 2024 at 10:47pm. Freddie weighed in at a healthy 7lb 14oz. Hollie and her partner, Michael, are absolutely delighted with the new addition to their family and we wish them all the very best for the future.