New apprenticeship reforms: What they mean for your business The government has announced some reforms to the apprenticeship system in England, which could bring some exciting opportunities for business owners. These reforms, aimed at boosting young people’s access to apprenticeships, come with a new “growth and skills levy” that will replace the existing apprenticeship levy....

Are you National Minimum Wage compliant? As HMRC intensifies its crackdown on National Minimum Wage (NMW) noncompliance, it’s vital to make sure you don’t fall foul of NMW laws. Compliance can have more complexities to it than many assume, and the risks of getting it wrong are significant. HMRC is focusing on SMEs It seems...

The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has announced a significant review aimed at enhancing pension investments, increasing pension pots, and reducing waste in the pensions system. The review was highlighted in the King’s Speech, confirming a new Pensions Bill that could significantly benefit UK pensioners and the broader economy. Here’s an analysis of what the review could...

So, the election results are in and the Labour party won the country’s mandate to form a new parliament. What could that mean for the tax you pay? Will there be an emergency budget? Labour will likely set out their initial plans in an ‘emergency’ budget. This is unlikely to happen before September or October...

On 1 October 2024, the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 will come into effect, introducing significant changes to how tips are managed and distributed in the hospitality industry. This legislation aims to improve fairness by mandating that all tips, gratuities, and service charges are allocated fairly among employees. The new rules address longstanding concerns...

The deadline – 6 July – for reporting expenses and benefits to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is rapidly approaching. It’s important for all employers to understand their responsibilities regarding this crucial tax form. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or new to the world of employment taxes, we’re here to guide you through the...

As accountants, we are often asked about the financial and tax implications of buying a second home. Sometimes the pull of a country or seaside retreat might inspire you to think about having a second home. Or maybe you have spare cash or income and are wondering if a second home could be a good...

Scammers are targeting people’s online tax accounts and attempting to steal sensitive personal data, HMRC officials have warned. It’s been reported by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) that various accountants’ clients have received emails, which are described by HMRC as “a tactic by scammers to direct people to a phishing...

Did you know that your business can benefit from a tax-free allowance if you host a celebratory event for your employees? If not, you may have missed out for this year’s Christmas party. Or if you’re planning a late festive party in January, this may come at just the right time! It’s not just the...

For those of you who employ staff, you’ll be aware of requirements surrounding workplace pensions. Changes could be afoot for pensions, with new proposals to give savers a legal right to require a new employer to pay pension contributions into their existing pension pot. A consultation has been launched by the Government. If later approved,...

Q. The turnover of my business has been no higher than £75,000 over a 12-month period since we started but has now crept up to £92,000. It reached this point on 5 December 2023. What do I need to do about VAT registration? A: Once your total VAT taxable turnover for the last 12 months...