# Industry News Archives | Darnells Source: https://www.darnells.co.uk/category/industry-news/ - [Old IHT forms will be rejected](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/old-iht-forms-will-be-rejected/) — HMRC has stopped processing old versions of the Inheritance Tax IHT100 forms from 31 August 2026. Anyone reporting an IHT chargeable event involving a gift... - [Alternative education providers can protect VAT refund claims](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/alternative-education-providers-can-protect-vat-refund-claims/) — HMRC has confirmed that some alternative providers of higher and further education can submit VAT refund claims following a Court of Appeal ruling, despite HMRC... - [Unused sales suppression tools can still trigger penalties](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/unused-sales-suppression-tools-can-still-trigger-penalties/) — HMRC has published a new compliance factsheet explaining the penalties that can apply where a business possesses an electronic sales suppression (ESS) tool, even if... - [September deadline to opt out of winter fuel payment](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/september-deadline-to-opt-out-of-winter-fuel-payment/) — Pensioners whose income is over £35,000 have only days left to opt out of the 2026/27 Winter Fuel Payment and avoid having it recovered through... - [HMRC clarifies summer holiday VAT cut](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-clarifies-summer-holiday-vat-cut/) — HMRC has published further guidance on the temporary VAT reduction for certain activities during the school summer holidays. The additional detail helps businesses determine which... - [Treatment of distributions under review](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/treatment-of-distributions-under-review/) — The government has launched a consultation on modernising the tax treatment of distributions and repayments of capital by companies. The proposals could affect the distinction... - [First MTD quarterly deadline arrives](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/first-mtd-quarterly-deadline-arrives/) — The first quarterly reporting deadline under Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT) is 7 August 2026. HMRC has now confirmed what will happen... - [HMRC targets landlords using third-party data](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/property-cgt-inheritance/hmrc-targets-landlords-using-third-party-data/) — HMRC has confirmed that it is using information received from third parties to identify landlords who may not have declared all of their rental income.... - [Self-employed taxpayers warned over missing Class 2 NI credits](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/personal-tax/self-employed-taxpayers-warned-over-missing-class-2-ni-credits/) — HMRC is warning some self-employed taxpayers to check their National Insurance (NI) records after an issue affecting Class 2 NI credits came to light. The... - [HMRC takes aim at side hustles](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-takes-aim-at-side-hustles/) — People with side hustles are the target of a HMRC press release reminding them of their potential tax obligations. Why has this been published now,... - [VAT on electricity to be cut](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/vat-on-electricity-to-be-cut/) — The new Prime Minister has announced a cut to the rate of VAT on electricity from 1 October. What’s the full story? Andy Burnham’s first... - [Supreme Court finds LLP asset managers are not influencers](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/supreme-court-finds-llp-asset-managers-are-not-influencers/) — The Supreme Court has ruled that portfolio managers at a hedge fund did not have significant influence over the affairs of a limited liability partnership... - [New digital process for NI refunds](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-digital-process-for-ni-refunds/) — HMRC has introduced an online service to claim a refund of Class 1 NI contributions but not everyone can use it. What can you do... - [Government launches consultation package on HMRC powers and tax administration](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-launches-consultation-package-on-hmrc-powers-and-tax-administration/) — The government has launched a wide-ranging package of consultations on tax administration, including proposals to strengthen HMRC’s debt recovery powers, modernise tax agent regulation and... - [Government finally confirms date for capital goods scheme reforms](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-finally-confirms-date-for-capital-goods-scheme-reforms/) — The government has finally confirmed when long-awaited changes to the capital goods scheme (CGS) will take effect. The reforms, first announced as part of a... - [HMRC targets smaller tax debts](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-targets-smaller-tax-debts/) — HMRC is stepping up collection of lower‑value tax debts, signalling a firmer approach to long‑overdue liabilities while encouraging earlier engagement. Direct recovery from bank and... - [HMRC urges agents to review excepted estates](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-urges-agents-to-review-excepted-estates/) — HMRC is reminding tax agents to review inheritance tax (IHT) returns submitted for excepted estates following changes introduced from 1 January 2025. The warning follows... - [Mandatory payrolling of benefits in kind delayed](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/mandatory-payrolling-of-benefits-in-kind-delayed/) — The government has revised plans to introduce the mandatory payrolling of benefits in kind from 6 April 2027, which will now be limited to company... - [HMRC targets “dodgy shops” in new compliance crackdown](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-targets-dodgy-shops-in-new-compliance-crackdown/) — The government has announced a new crackdown on businesses suspected of facilitating tax evasion, with HMRC increasing its focus on so-called “dodgy shops” used to... - [Uber loses VAT margin scheme appeal](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/uber-loses-vat-margin-scheme-appeal/) — The Court of Appeal has ruled that Uber cannot use the Tour Operators Margin Scheme (TOMS) when accounting for VAT on its ride-hailing services. The... - [Timetable for agent multi-factor authentication rollout published](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/timetable-for-agent-multi-factor-authentication-rollout-published/) — HMRC has published further details of its plans to introduce multi-factor authentication (MFA) for tax agents. The rollout is intended to strengthen security across HMRC’s... - [VAT cut for children’s holiday activities over summer](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/vat-cut-for-childrens-holiday-activities-over-summer/) — The government has announced a temporary reduction in the rate of VAT applying to certain children’s holiday activity programmes during the summer holidays. The measure... - [HMRC clarifies treatment of averaging relief under MTD IT](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-clarifies-treatment-of-averaging-relief-under-mtd-it/) — HMRC has updated its guidance to explain how averaging relief claims will operate under Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT). The clarification addresses... - [HMRC launches new R&D advance assurance process](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-launches-new-rd-advance-assurance-process/) — HMRC has introduced a new advance assurance process for research and development (R&D) tax relief claims, aimed at giving eligible companies greater certainty before submitting... - [Judge criticises use of fabricated AI-generated cases in HMRC appeal](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/judge-criticises-use-of-fabricated-ai-generated-cases-in-hmrc-appeal/) — A tax tribunal judge has criticised the use of apparently fabricated case references generated by artificial intelligence in an appeal against HMRC. The incident highlights... - [HMRC launches tax advisor register checker tool](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-launches-tax-advisor-register-checker-tool/) — HMRC has launched a new online tool allowing taxpayers to check whether their tax advisor is registered with it. The checker has been introduced shortly... - [HMRC loses employment status case involving football referees](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-loses-employment-status-case-involving-football-referees/) — HMRC has lost another employment status case, this time involving football referees engaged by Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL). The tribunal rejected HMRC’s argument... - [Where can you get help with MTD quarterly updates?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/where-can-you-get-help-with-mtd-quarterly-updates/) — As Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT) filing obligations begin for some taxpayers, questions are continuing to arise around quarterly updates and how... - [HMRC writes to non-domiciled taxpayers following rule changes](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-writes-to-non-domiciled-taxpayers-following-rule-changes/) — HMRC has begun issuing “one-to-many” letters to individuals affected by recent changes to the tax rules for non-UK domiciled taxpayers. The letters prompt recipients to... - [Don’t overlook the partial exemption annual adjustment](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/dont-overlook-the-partial-exemption-annual-adjustment/) — As VAT year ends approach for many businesses, HMRC’s guidance highlights the need to carry out the partial exemption annual adjustment. This is often overlooked... - [HMRC to contact representatives over NI refunds for deceased taxpayers](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-to-contact-representatives-over-ni-refunds-for-deceased-taxpayers/) — HMRC has updated its guidance to confirm that it will write to representatives of deceased individuals where it believes too much NI has been paid.... - [ATED filing deadline approaching for 2026/27](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/ated-filing-deadline-approaching-for-2026-27/) — Companies holding high-value UK residential property need to ensure their annual tax on enveloped dwellings (ATED) returns are filed by the end of April. With... - [HMRC updates guidance on information notices](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-updates-guidance-on-information-notices/) — HMRC has updated its Compliance Handbook guidance on the use of information notices, with changes made on 18 March 2026. The revisions clarify how HMRC... - [Free childcare for company owners?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/free-childcare-for-company-owners/) — You’re an owner manager and your daughter is due to start nursery. You understand that working parents can get free childcare but a friend said... - [Getting the NI on benefits right](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/getting-the-ni-on-benefits-right/) — Getting the National Insurance (NI) treatment of employee benefits wrong remains a common issue for employers, particularly where the benefits are payrolled. Errors can lead... - [HMRC reminds employers to check tax codes at start of new tax year](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-reminds-employers-to-check-tax-codes-at-start-of-new-tax-year/) — HMRC is reminding employers to review PAYE coding notices as the 2026/27 tax year gets underway. With new tax codes now in operation, what should... - [Tribunal rejects reliance on adviser as reasonable excuse](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tribunal-rejects-reliance-on-adviser-as-reasonable-excuse/) — A recent First-tier Tribunal decision has confirmed that relying on an accountant does not automatically amount to a reasonable excuse for missing a self-assessment deadline.... - [HMRC issues new wave of offshore “nudge” letters](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-issues-new-wave-of-offshore-nudge-letters/) — HMRC has issued a further round of “nudge” letters targeting individuals it believes may have undeclared offshore income or gains. The letters form part of... - [Payroll changes for 2026/27](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/payroll-changes-for-2026-27/) — As the end of 2025/26 draws closer, HMRC has published a raft of updates and reminders for employers. Which changes do you need to be... - [HMRC publishes penalty guidance for MTD IT](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-publishes-penalty-guidance-for-mtd-it/) — HMRC has published guidance on how penalties will apply under Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT). With mandation approaching from April 2026, what... - [Directors to face identity checks under Companies House reforms](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/directors-to-face-identity-checks-under-companies-house-reforms/) — Companies House has published further guidance on the introduction of mandatory identity verification for company directors and other individuals involved in company filings. The change... - [Who can’t yet sign up for MTD IT?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/who-cant-yet-sign-up-for-mtd-it/) — Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT) becomes mandatory from April 2026 for sole traders and landlords with qualifying income over £50,000. However, HMRC’s... - [HMRC updates advisory fuel rates from 1 March 2026](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-updates-advisory-fuel-rates-from-1-march-2026/) — HMRC has published the latest advisory fuel and electric rates (AFRs) for company cars, effective from 1 March 2026. Several rates have changed since the... - [5 April deadline approaching for key tax relief claims](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/5-april-deadline-approaching-for-key-tax-relief-claims/) — With the end of the 2025/26 tax year now less than seven weeks away, business owners and company directors should remember that several valuable reliefs... - [HMRC reminds employers about payrolling benefits deadlines](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-reminds-employers-about-payrolling-benefits-deadlines/) — HMRC is reminding employers of key dates and preparations ahead of the transition to real-time payrolling of benefits in kind (BiKs). With an important voluntary... - [HMRC restarts direct recovery of tax debts from bank accounts](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-restarts-direct-recovery-of-tax-debts-from-bank-accounts/) — HMRC has resumed use of its Direct Recovery of Debts (DRD) powers, enabling it to recover unpaid tax directly from the bank accounts of businesses... - [HMRC bungles 2026/27 PAYE codes for pensioners](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-bungles-2026-27-paye-codes-for-pensioners/) — For some pensioners, the 2025/26 winter fuel payment should be collected via their 2026/27 PAYE code. HMRC has started to issue PAYE codes for the... - [MTD glitch risks confusion over 2025/26 payments on account](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/mtd-glitch-risks-confusion-over-2025-26-payments-on-account/) — Some taxpayers testing Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT) are seeing confusing and incomplete payment information because their data is split between HMRC’s... - [Government unveils business rates cuts and late licensing boost for pubs](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-unveils-business-rates-cuts-and-late-licensing-boost-for-pubs/) — Pubs will see their business rates cut and licensing rules relaxed under a new support package aimed at reviving high streets and protecting local community... - [HMRC threatens bogus penalties](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-threatens-bogus-penalties/) — Correspondence from HMRC suggests there’s a penalty if you don’t pay your self-assessment tax bill by Saturday, 31 January. This isn’t strictly true, but what... - [HMRC updates guidance for claiming new allowance](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-updates-guidance-for-claiming-new-allowance/) — Qualifying expenditure on plant and machinery can qualify for a 40% first-year allowance from 1 January 2026. HMRC has now updated its guidance to help... - [Repayment thresholds for student finance confirmed](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/repayment-thresholds-for-student-finance-confirmed/) — Repaying student finance can seem complicated, with a number of different plan types each having different repayment thresholds. The thresholds for the forthcoming year have... - [Advance assurance pilot confirmed](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/advance-assurance-pilot-confirmed/) — There have been a number of changes to how research and development tax credits are claimed in recent years. HMRC has now confirmed that a... - [Government announces significant climbdown on IHT reforms](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-announces-significant-climbdown-on-iht-reforms/) — The introduction of a £1 million cap on 100% business and agricultural property relief from April 2026 has been criticised particularly heavily by the farming... - [Marginal relief – responding to an HMRC nudge letter](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/marginal-relief-responding-to-an-hmrc-nudge-letter/) — HMRC is running a campaign to clamp down on incorrect claims for corporation tax marginal relief (MR). In what circumstances might you be challenged by... - [Gift relief to be “modernised”](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/gift-relief-to-be-modernised/) — A restriction on gift holdover relief will be reformed in 2026. This will affect gifts of certain shares, so what’s the full story? The Overview of... - [Government rushes through NI cap on pension salary sacrifice](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-rushes-through-ni-cap-on-pension-salary-sacrifice/) — The government has already drafted legislation to impose a £2,000 limit on NI exempt pension contributions under salary sacrifice arrangements. What else do we know?... - [Sneaky change is a blow for side hustles](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/sneaky-change-is-a-blow-for-side-hustles/) — With most of the media focused on the headline-grabbing announcements from the Budget, a read of the published small print reveals another change coming in... - [HMRC checks directors’ loans are paid up](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-checks-directors-loans-are-paid-up/) — HMRC is writing to agents to check corporation tax returns for previous years are correct as it used to be possible to add a future... - [Government quietly confirms change to key tax deduction](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-quietly-confirms-change-to-key-tax-deduction/) — The headlines for individuals at last week’s Budget were all about the income tax hikes. But the small print contained confirmation of another important change.... - [Static company car advisory fuel rates](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/static-company-car-advisory-fuel-rates/) — The amount that employers can reimburse staff for business travel in company cars from 1 December 2025 has been announced. What’s changing? Advisory fuel rates... - [New HMRC guidance on winter fuel payments](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-hmrc-guidance-on-winter-fuel-payments/) — HMRC has released new guidance on the recovery of winter fuel payments. What do you need to know? The winter fuel payment is paid to... - [New process for some exports starting in Northern Ireland](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-process-for-some-exports-starting-in-northern-ireland/) — Starting next month, businesses that import goods via Northern Ireland will need to change their processes. What do you need to know? Currently, businesses that... - [Special payroll deadline for Christmas](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/special-payroll-deadline-for-christmas/) — If you pay staff early in December because of Christmas it’s important that you enter the information on your payroll submission correctly. What do you... - [How much VAT should you charge on festive goods?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/how-much-vat-should-you-charge-on-festive-goods/) — Your business makes and sells goods that are specifically designed for the Christmas trading period and you are preparing for the busy season. What are... - [Weekend November PAYE deadline](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/weekend-november-paye-deadline/) — The next electronic payment deadline for PAYE falls on a weekend. What do you need to do? HMRC has included a timely reminder in its... - [Compliance check tool gets an update](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/compliance-check-tool-gets-an-update/) — If you are on the receiving end of a compliance check, you might head to HMRC’s bank of online information to find out what to... - [Welsh government plans to tweak relief for buyers](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/welsh-government-plans-to-tweak-relief-for-buyers/) — The draft Welsh Budget 2026/27 confirmed there would be no changes in the rates of land transaction tax. However, it did reveal some related changes... - [How to apportion advisory mileage rates for EVs](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/how-to-apportion-advisory-mileage-rates-for-evs/) — In September, HMRC introduced a new two-tier advisory mileage rate for employees charging electric vehicles. The rate differs depending on whether the vehicle is charged... - [Recovering salary overpayments due to payroll errors](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/recovering-salary-overpayments-due-to-payroll-errors/) — Five employees at Glasgow City Council have together been ordered to pay back £40,000 in overpaid wages caused by a payroll error relating to the... - [New tool to help determine whether activities are “qualifying”](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-tool-to-help-determine-whether-activities-are-qualifying/) — HMRC has published a new online tool to help companies decide whether they are eligible to make a claim for research and development (R&D) relief.... - [HMRC to raid bank accounts for unpaid tax](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-to-raid-bank-accounts-for-unpaid-tax/) — HMRC is restarting the use of direct debt recovery for individuals and businesses who choose not to pay the tax they owe despite having the... - [In-year relief claim? Prove it](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/in-year-relief-claim-prove-it/) — Taxpayers who are due additional tax relief on their pension contributions, i.e. higher or additional rate taxpayers who are not within self-assessment, can ask HMRC... - [HMRC has withdrawn Form 652. How should you notify VAT errors going forward?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-has-withdrawn-form-652-how-should-you-notify-vat-errors-going-forward/) — Form VAT 652 was previously used to notify HMRC of errors in VAT returns but has now been withdrawn from September 2025. The form was... - [HMRC has recently expanded the scope of taxpayers who can arrange a payment plan online. What are the new parameters and conditions?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-has-recently-expanded-the-scope-of-taxpayers-who-can-arrange-a-payment-plan-online-what-are-the-new-parameters-and-conditions/) — Simple assessment is used by HMRC where you have unpaid tax, e.g. from your state pension, that can’t be collected via PAYE, but don’t meet... - [New two-tier mileage rates for electric vehicles](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-two-tier-mileage-rates-for-electric-vehicles/) — Advisory fuel rates for company cars are updated by HMRC on a quarterly basis due to fluctuations in fuel prices. The rates determine the amount... - [Tax trap when renting to relatives](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tax-trap-when-renting-to-relatives/) — Uncommercial lets The saying goes that “no good deed goes unpunished”, and when it comes to tax there are several circumstances that prove it. You... - [Late payment interest to be cut](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/late-payment-interest-to-be-cut/) — Interest rates were cut from 4.25% to 4% on 6 August. HMRC penalty interest rates are set at the Bank of England base rate plus... - [Opt out of winter fuel payments by 15th September](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/opt-out-of-winter-fuel-payments-by-15th-september/) — The winter fuel payment will be paid to state pension recipients this winter and is worth £200 per household, or £300 if you’re over 80.... - [Change to IHT on pension proposals](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/change-to-iht-on-pension-proposals/) — In her first budget last Autumn Rachael Reeves dropped a number of bombshells. One of the biggest was her proposal to bring pension savings and... - [Class 2 NI problems to continue beyond summer](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/class-2-ni-problems-to-continue-beyond-summer/) — We reported previously that incorrect SA302s that include Class 2 NI were being issued, despite compulsory payments being abolished from April 2024. Note that this... - [Time off for fertility treatment?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/time-off-for-fertility-treatment/) — Employees have no specific statutory right to take time off work to undergo in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or other fertility treatment before the stage at... - [HMRC’S new compliance check service](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrcs-new-compliance-check-service/) — What’s a compliance check? Contrary to what you might have heard, a compliance check is not a tax enquiry. The latter is a review of... - [Loan written off: Are you in HMRC’S crosshairs?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/loan-written-off-are-you-in-hmrcs-crosshairs/) — The letters are being sent to taxpayers who: had a director’s loan that was written off or released between April 2019 and April 2023; and... - [Meaning of “new and unused” clarified for CAS purposes](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/meaning-of-new-and-unused-clarified-for-cas-purposes/) — The guidance on what “new and unused” means for the purposes of first-year allowances has been updated in order to make things clearer. What’s the... - [Scammers already targeting pensioners over winter fuel payments](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/scammers-already-targeting-pensioners-over-winter-fuel-payments/) — Last week we reported on the government’s announcement on winter fuel payments for 2025/26. According to a report by the ICAEW, it appears that scammers... - [Winter fuel payments to be clawed back via tax system](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/winter-fuel-payments-to-be-clawed-back-via-tax-system/) — Recent weeks have been rife with speculation that the government would announce a climbdown for the current year, and this has now happened. Under the... - [Latest advisory fuel rates published 2025](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/latest-advisory-fuel-rates-published-2/) — Advisory fuel rates for company cars are updated by HMRC on a quarterly basis due to fluctuations in fuel prices. The rates determine the amount... - [P11DS – Don’t forget beneficial loans](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/p11ds-dont-forget-beneficial-loans/) — P11D filing may soon be consigned to the history books, though mandatory payrolling has been pushed back to 2027. However, until then it’s important that... - [Dodging the dreaded annual P11D routine](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/dodging-the-dreaded-annual-p11d-routine/) — Tax on benefits is changing As you’re probably aware, HMRC is changing how employers report the benefits in kind they provide to their employees and... - [HMRC says care industry VAT group is “tax avoidance”](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-says-care-industry-vat-group-is-tax-avoidance/) — HMRC says that it considers the structuring of VAT groups within the care industry to gain a tax advantage to be tax avoidance. State-regulated care... - [New PAYE procedure being overlooked](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-paye-procedure-being-overlooked/) — Accountancy and tax organisations are warning employers that they are at risk of falling foul of HMRC if they don’t follow the new tax residency... - [Further relaxation of self-assessment thresholds announced](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/further-relaxation-of-self-assessment-thresholds-announced/) — The criteria for the requirement for self-assessment varies between different types of taxpayer. Previously, self-employed traders have enjoyed a turnover threshold of £1,000 with no... - [Mandatory payrolling of employee benefits delayed until 2027](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/mandatory-payrolling-of-employee-benefits-delayed-until-2027/) — The government has announced a delay to the introduction of mandatory payrolling for benefits in kind and taxable employment expenses. These measures have been pushed... - [Multiple agents for MTD ISA will be permitted](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/multiple-agents-for-mtd-isa-will-be-permitted/) — New guidance introduces the concept of using multiple agents to manage your MTD account. The guidance outlines the role of a “main” agent and that... - [One-person companies and the employment allowance](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/one-person-companies-and-the-employment-allowance/) — What’s the employment allowance? The employment allowance (EA) is the amount that employers can deduct from their annual NI bill (employers’ secondary Class 1 contributions).... - [Permanent increase to penalty interest rates](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/permanent-increase-to-penalty-interest-rates/) — Prior to 2025/26, interest was charged at the Bank of England base rate plus 2.5% on most underpaid taxes. In a push for unpaid tax... - [HMRC pauses some refund claims for agents](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-pauses-some-refund-claims-for-agents/) — An increase in fraudulent requests for money to be repaid has led HMRC to stop accepting claims made by phone, even where there is an... - [New CGT reporting tool](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-cgt-reporting-tool/) — At the Autumn Budget 2024, the government announced that the main rates of CGT would increase from 10% to 18% for basic rate taxpayers, and... - [Hidden MTD news in spring statement documents](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hidden-mtd-news-in-spring-statement-documents/) — The timetable for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD ITSA) includes mandating sole traders and landlords with revenue exceeding £50,000 from April 2026,... - [HMRC MTD ITSA webinar – worth a look?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-mtd-itsa-webinar-worth-a-look/) — Some sole traders and landlords will be mandated into Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD ITSA) next April. HMRC has published a video... - [Relaxation of self-assessment threshold](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/relaxation-of-self-assessment-threshold/) — Currently, those with trading income exceeding £1,000 must submit a tax return each year, even if they do not have any tax to pay. HMRC... - [HMRC’s official rate of interest set to increase](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrcs-official-rate-of-interest-set-to-increase/) — HMRC’s official rate of interest (ORI) will increase from 2.25% to 3.75% on 6 April 2025. This is the first increase to the ORI since... - [HMRC and Companies House to scrap free filing services](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-and-companies-house-to-scrap-free-filing-services/) — On 6 March HMRC and Companies House announced that their online filing services for corporation tax (CT) returns and accounts will be withdrawn with effect... - [How is Income Tax Calculated?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/how-is-income-tax-calculated/) — What is Income Tax? Income Tax is a tax that UK taxpayers pay to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). It’s calculated on taxable income, which... - [What is Capital Gains Tax?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/what-is-capital-gains-tax/) — Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax you pay on the profit made when you sell, give away or otherwise dispose of an asset that... - [Government seeks views on inheritance tax changes for trusts](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-seeks-views-on-inheritance-tax-changes-for-trusts/) — As announced at the 2024 Autumn Budget, a new £1m allowance will apply to the combined value of property that qualifies for 100% business property... - [How to Calculate Corporation Tax](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/how-to-calculate-corporation-tax/) — Corporation Tax is the tax businesses pay on their profits. For limited companies, calculating Corporation Tax is a vital part of managing finances and staying compliant... - [HMRC has no discretion to disapply interest](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-has-no-discretion-to-disapply-interest/) — Commercial restitution HMRC’s long-standing policy was to not charge interest on underpayments notified outside a VAT return if there was no loss of tax to... - [Latest advisory fuel rates for company cars](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/latest-advisory-fuel-rates-for-company-cars-2/) — Advisory fuel rates for company cars are updated by HMRC on a quarterly basis due to fluctuations in fuel prices. The rates determine the amount... - [Have your say on e-invoicing](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/have-your-say-on-e-invoicing/) — E-invoicing refers to digitally generated invoices between suppliers and customers. This is more involved than, say, generating a PDF from a manually typed document, and... - [Pension tax reflief can now be claimed online](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/pension-tax-reflief-can-now-be-claimed-online/) — HMRC has launched a new online form to make it easier for taxpayers to claim additional tax relief on their pension contributions. Claimants can login... - [Late payment interest rates changed again](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/late-payment-interest-rates-changed-again/) — On 6 February 2025 an announcement confirmed a reduction in the Bank of England base rate to 4.5% from 4.75%. As HMRC’s late payment and... - [No reduction to assessment due to lack of evidence](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/no-reduction-to-assessment-due-to-lack-of-evidence/) — MRC discovered that Mr Opoku-Anokye (O) was liable for the high-income child benefit charge, but had failed to submit tax returns for two years. Discovery... - [Self-employed set for penalty reprieve](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/self-employed-set-for-penalty-reprieve/) — Penalties for late filing are applied in stages, with the first being a £100 penalty where the tax return is not filed by midnight on... - [Court of appeal shuns upper tribunal’s interpretation of salaried members rules](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/court-of-appeal-shuns-upper-tribunals-interpretation-of-salaried-members-rules/) — The salaried members rules treat individual members of an LLP as employees for the purposes of income tax and National Insurance where three conditions are... - [Chancellor set to tone down non-dom reform?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/chancellor-set-to-tone-down-non-dom-reform/) — Domicile is a general, not a tax, law principle. Nonetheless it has long been an important factor in determining the extent to which worldwide income,... - [HMRC relaxes MTD rules for joint property owners](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-relaxes-mtd-rules-for-joint-property-owners/) — HMRC has recently published a digital record-keeping notice in relation to Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD ITSA). The notice includes, amongst other... - [HMRC deliberately cutting off calls?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-deliberately-cutting-off-calls/) — HMRC is in the firing line of the PAC again this week. Previously, the public watchdog has criticised HMRC for cutting services, such as its... - [Russian hedge fund manager loses £484k SDLT case](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/russian-hedge-fund-manager-loses-484k-sdlt-case/) — In Tretyakov v Revenue and Customs, Mr Tretyakov (T) purchased a luxurious £5.75m property in London and paid a reduced rate of SDLT on the basis... - [Selling online – What’s HMRC’s latest guidance?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/selling-online-whats-hmrcs-latest-guidance/) — Déjà vu? HMRC seems slow to learn that ambiguous information has a habit of breeding unwelcome headlines and panic on social media. So after releasing “Check... - [New disclosure facility for R&D claims launches](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-disclosure-facility-for-rd-claims-launches/) — Due to the frequency of errors and fraudulent activity in Research & Development (R&D), HMRC has published guidance alongside a new disclosure facility for overclaimed... - [HMRC chief urges thousands to check NI record](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-chief-urges-thousands-to-check-ni-record/) — Parents looking after children are entitled to adjustments to their NI record to ensure they don’t lose out on state pension entitlement. However, tens of... - [MTD ITSA – Another step closer](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/mtd-itsa-another-step-closer/) — Timetable In April 2026, just 15 months away, sole traders and landlords whose turnover exceeds £50,000 per year (based on figures for 2024/25) will need... - [Welsh government increases charge on some residential property purchases](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/welsh-government-increases-charge-on-some-residential-property-purchases/) — Wales has a devolved government with limited powers to make and amend tax law. One tax that is fully devolved is land transaction tax –... - [Scottish budget confirms bands and rates for 2025/26](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/scottish-budget-confirms-bands-and-rates-for-2025-26/) — On 4 December the Scottish government published its 2025 Budget, which included the proposed income tax rates for 2025/26. The good news is that the... - [Overlap relief calculator launched](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/overlap-relief-calculator-launched/) — The 2023/24 self-assessment tax returns need to be filed by 31 January 2025, but, for partners and sole traders a little extra work may be... - [Harry Potter star loses £1.9m tax row](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/harry-potter-star-loses-1-9m-tax-row/) — Rupert Grint (RG) took on the role of Ron Weasley at the tender age of 13, and so as you may expect, his father was... - [Latest advisory fuel rates for company cars 2024](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/latest-advisory-fuel-rates-for-company-cars-2024/) — Advisory fuel rates for company cars are updated by HMRC on a quarterly basis due to fluctuations in fuel prices. The rates determine the amount... - [Have you paid enough tax on property profits?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/have-you-paid-enough-tax-on-property-profits/) — HMRC often sends nudge letters to individuals who may not have declared income or capital gains, and this time, it is targeting profits from letting... - [MTD ITSA guidance updated following budget](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/mtd-itsa-guidance-updated-following-budget/) — The current timetable for mandating into MTD ITSA is as follows: April 2026 for sole traders and landlords with income over £50,000; and April 2027... - [HMRC issues further guidance on FHL abolition](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-issues-further-guidance-on-fhl-abolition/) — The FHL regime will be abolished from 6 April 2025. In response to common issues raised during the consultation process, HMRC has published further guidance... - [Budget IHT changes – graverobber tax to be expanded](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/budget-iht-changes-graverobber-tax-to-be-expanded/) — First change – frozen thresholds The first whiff of the bad news to come was the Chancellor’s announcement regarding the nil rate and residential nil... - [HMRC to reduce late payment interest](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-to-reduce-late-payment-interest/) — On 7 November 2024 an announcement confirmed a reduction in the Bank of England base rate to 4.75% from 5.0%. As HMRC’s late payment and... - [Budget 2024: Looking behind the speech](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/budget-2024-looking-behind-the-speech/) — Headlines Undoubtedly the biggest changes announced in the Autumn Budget were those affecting employers’ NI, pensions and inheritance tax reliefs. We’ll cover these separately in... - [HMRC launches MTD ITSA toolkit](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-launches-mtd-itsa-toolkit/) — MTD ITSA is being phased in from April 2026 and involves quarterly reporting of income and expenses to HMRC. Broadly, those with income from self-employment... - [Proof of employment expenses now required](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/proof-of-employment-expenses-now-required/) — Due to numerous incorrect claims, it’s now necessary to submit evidence to HMRC to claim tax relief on certain employment expenses that are not reimbursed... - [HMRC expands agent-related services](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-expands-agent-related-services/) — HMRC found that over a third of calls last year to its Agent Dedicated Line (ADL) were chasing self-assessment repayments. In an attempt to make... - [Tax return deadline – Are you ready?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tax-return-deadline-are-you-ready/) — f you prefer to fill in your tax return on paper, you have until midnight on 31 October 2024 to deliver it to HMRC. If... - [Child benefit claimants could be missing out on full state pension entitlement](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/child-benefit-claimants-could-be-missing-out-on-full-state-pension-entitlement/) — Entitlement to certain benefits can preserve your entitlement to the state pension, as since 2010, NI credits are automatically awarded to provide qualifying years on... - [Tribunal denies fishy business property relief claim](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tribunal-denies-fishy-business-property-relief-claim/) — Mrs Pearce (Mrs P) had carried on a fishery business for 17 years, having taken over when her husband died. Mr P had built a... - [Losses on CT Returns may be incorrect](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/losses-on-ct-returns-may-be-incorrect/) — An issue with corporation tax losses recorded on the CT600 form has been ongoing for some time. This may affect your company if you have... - [Could specific gifts from will trust be undone?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/could-specific-gifts-from-will-trust-be-undone/) — Mr Marks (M) was the executor of his father’s estate. The deceased’s will left a number of gifts to his descendants and spouse (as life... - [Workaround for botched HMRC student loan repayment calculations](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/workaround-for-botched-hmrc-student-loan-repayment-calculations/) — If you make student loan repayments and you’re also within the self-assessment regime, you’ll be aware that any student loan repayments due on additional (typically... - [EIS and VCT extended for ten years](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/eis-and-vct-extended-for-ten-years/) — Shares in qualifying companies must be issued before a certain date, known as the sunset date, in order to claim tax relief under the enterprise... - [Latest advisory fuel rates for company car drivers](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/latest-advisory-fuel-rates-for-company-car-drivers/) — Advisory fuel rates for company cars are updated by HMRC on a quarterly basis due to fluctuations in fuel prices. The rates determine the amount... - [Unpaid tax from cryptocurrency transactions targeted](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/unpaid-tax-from-cryptocurrency-transactions-targeted/) — HMRC is currently writing to individuals who have disposed of cryptoassets because the tax treatment is widely misunderstood and therefore tax may have been underpaid.... - [Late payment interest to fall for first time in four years](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/late-payment-interest-to-fall-for-first-time-in-four-years/) — As HMRC’s late payment and repayment interest rates are linked to the base rate, they will also come down. This will be the first time... - [New online VAT registration tool](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-online-vat-registration-tool/) — The latest interactive tool has been introduced by HMRC in response to feedback from small businesses. The new tool can estimate what registering for VAT... - [Form P1000 now available digitally](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/form-p1000-now-available-digitally/) — When a client dies, HMRC will cancel the authority the advisor holds – required to act on the their behalf. This means that the advisor... - [P11D filing deadline looming](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/p11d-filing-deadline-looming/) — Where taxable expenses and benefits were provided to an employee in the 2023/24 tax year, these will need to be reported to HMRC if: the... - [Taxpayer victory bucks trend in SDLT row](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/taxpayer-victory-bucks-trend-in-sdlt-row/) — SDLT rates are different for residential and non-residential property. The non-residential rates are generally more favourable, particularly for more expensive property as the highest rate... - [HMRC can’t fix class 2 NI problem](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-cant-fix-class-2-ni-problem/) — Class 2 NI has been collected via self-assessment for a while now, but there are still problems. It was recently reported that HMRC’s systems were... - [Salary advances: change to reporting rules](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/salary-advances-change-to-reporting-rules/) — Up until recently, the rules regarding reporting an advance on earnings required employers to submit an additional full payment submission (FPS) to record them on... - [What do the main parties intend to do with tax?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/what-do-the-main-parties-intend-to-do-with-tax/) — Speculating about tax changes can be a fruitless exercise, e.g. before Budget day. However, with a number of tax policies being a key part of... - [Supplies were vatable, but assessment was out of time](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/supplies-were-vatable-but-assessment-was-out-of-time/) — The taxpayer (GG) is a registered nurse, qualified as a prescriber, and sold treatments for skin disorders, mainly ultraviolet. She had exceeded the compulsory registration... - [Warning for cryptoasset investors](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/warning-for-cryptoasset-investors/) — HMRC has already set out its design for self-assessment tax returns for 2024/25. The return will include dedicated questions in the capital gains pages (Form... - [Non-dom reform missing from finance act](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/non-dom-reform-missing-from-finance-act/) — The 2024 Spring Budget included an announcement that the rules for “non-domiciled” individuals would be completely overhauled in 2025, with a residence-based test granting a... - [Latest “One-to-Many” campaign targets rollover relief claimants](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/latest-one-to-many-campaign-targets-rollover-relief-claimants/) — Business asset rollover relief may be available where you make a disposal of a qualifying business asset, and use the proceeds to purchase another qualifying... - [No simple trading test for holiday let landlords](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/no-simple-trading-test-for-holiday-let-landlords/) — At the March 2024 Budget, the government confirmed that the furnished holiday lettings (FHL) regime would be abolished from 6 April 2025. The cited reason... - [New interactive tool for transition period profit reporting published](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-interactive-tool-for-transition-period-profit-reporting-published/) — For 2023/24, basis period reform will start to kick in – meaning unincorporated businesses that have a different accounting period to the tax year must... - [Were capital losses deductible for income tax?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/were-capital-losses-deductible-for-income-tax/) — Worthless investment The case of Timothy Bunting and HMRC (2024) (B and HMRC) came about following a claim for income tax loss relief by B... - [Rogue refunds of class 2 NI due to HMRC failure](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/rogue-refunds-of-class-2-ni-due-to-hmrc-failure/) — Self-employed taxpayers with profits below £6,725 can voluntarily pay Class 2 NI to maintain their entitlement to certain benefits, most importantly, it adds a year... - [New online service for voluntary contributions goes live](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-online-service-for-voluntary-contributions-goes-live/) — If you have an incomplete contribution record for a particular tax year, you will receive a statement advising you of the position, usually about 20... - [Deadline for child tax benefit](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/deadline-for-child-tax-benefit/) — HICBC recap The high income child benefit charge (HICBC) has been contentious since it was introduced in 2013. It applies to individuals or their partners... - [New guidance on commuting expenses for hybrid workers](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-guidance-on-commuting-expenses-for-hybrid-workers/) — The rules surrounding which journeys you can and cannot claim tax relief for travel expenses are complex, resulting in HMRC publishing guidance with over 50... - [Welsh government considering future of multiple dwellings relief](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/welsh-government-considering-future-of-multiple-dwellings-relief/) — he Budget announcement that multiple dwellings relief (MDR) would be abolished only applies to stamp duty land tax, i.e. to property transactions in England or... - [Guidance for merged R&D scheme published](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/guidance-for-merged-rd-scheme-published/) — For accounting periods beginning before 1 April 2024, smaller companies could access a separate R&D scheme. Historically, this has been more generous than the relief... - [Have you underclaimed your expenses?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/have-you-underclaimed-your-expenses/) — The initial letter was a prompt to check property letting expenses that had been claimed on the 2021/22 tax return. It contained the statement that... - [HMRC U-turn on helpline closures](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-u-turn-on-helpline-closures/) — Earlier this week HMRC announced cuts to several phone services, including closing of the self-assessment helpline for six months. The intention was to allocate staff... - [Popular helplines to be severely restricted permanently](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/popular-helplines-to-be-severely-restricted-permanently/) — HMRC’s cuts to frontline services is to continue, following several trials in 2023 when staff were temporarily reallocated elsewhere to help with processing backlogs. The... - [New MTD trial launches soon](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-mtd-trial-launches-soon/) — MTD update The clock is ticking towards the deadline for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD ITSA). On 6 April 2026 the first... - [Revised guidance causing problems for LLP members](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/revised-guidance-causing-problems-for-llp-members/) — Generally, members of an LLP are taxed on their profit shares as self-employed income. However, if the “salaried member” anti-avoidance rules bite, the allocation is... - [Group capital allowances under review](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/group-capital-allowances-under-review/) — The annual investment allowance ( AIA) gives 100% tax relief on qualifying expenditure up to a specific limit (currently £1m), most commonly for plant and... - [Advisory fuel rates from 1 March 2024 published](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/advisory-fuel-rates-from-1-march-2024-published/) — Advisory fuel rates for company cars are updated on a quarterly basis due to fluctuations in fuel prices. The rates determine the amount that can... - [Government U-turn on double cab pickups](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-u-turn-on-double-cab-pickups/) — We previously reported that the tax treatment of double cab pickup trucks was to change with effect from 1 July 2024, with the VAT definition... - [Double blow for double cab pickups](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/double-blow-for-double-cab-pickups/) — Company cars have become increasingly expensive for both employers and employees in recent years, unless employees opt for hybrid or wholly electric choices. However many... - [Rates and thresholds for 2024/25 confirmed](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/rates-and-thresholds-for-2024-25-confirmed/) — One of the more lamented features of the current tax system is the ongoing freeze applying to tax/NI thresholds and allowances, which were originally planned... - [Why proof of occupation is vital for PRR claims](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/why-proof-of-occupation-is-vital-for-prr-claims/) — The sale of your main home doesn’t usually attract capital gains tax (CGT) charges. This is due to the availability of private residence relief (PRR),... - [Do you have undeclared dividend income?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/do-you-have-undeclared-dividend-income/) — Whilst receiving such a letter can be daunting, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have done anything wrong. HMRC often uses external sources to help... - [Over one million tax returns not filed on time](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/over-one-million-tax-returns-not-filed-on-time/) — The 2022/23 year saw a record number of tax returns filed on time, but additionally the number that missed the deadline also increased. Initial estimates... - [Ex-Liverpool star loses IR35 case](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/ex-liverpool-star-loses-ir35-case/) — HMRC asserted that additional tax of almost £300,000 was payable because Phil Thompson’s (T’s) work for Sky, via his personal service company, was inside the... - [Taxpayer successfully argues against “deliberate behaviour” penalty](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/taxpayer-successfully-argues-against-deliberate-behaviour-penalty/) — There’s a largely harmonised penalty regime for inaccuracies across different taxes, including income tax. Broadly: a penalty arises because of a lack of reasonable care,... - [P11D filing to end](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/p11d-filing-to-end/) — Currently, over 4m P11D returns are filed each year. The forms are used to report taxable benefits in kind, e.g. company cars, and set out... - [HMRC cuts helpline ahead of SA deadline](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-cuts-helpline-ahead-of-sa-deadline/) — HMRC resources HMRC seems to be stumbling from one crisis to another. In 2023 it closed various helplines, some temporarily and at least one permanently.... - [HMRC reminds cryptoasset holders of tax obligations](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-reminds-cryptoasset-holders-of-tax-obligations/) — HMRC is concerned that individuals who sell or exchange cryptoassets may not be aware that they need to file a tax return, particularly as a... - [Online side hustlers to feel HMRC’S wrath?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/online-side-hustlers-to-feel-hmrcs-wrath/) — Despite the sensational headlines, no new taxes have been introduced. In fact, it’s always been the case that if you are trading, i.e. attempting to... - [Child benefit goes digital](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/child-benefit-goes-digital/) — HMRC has launched a digital application form for child benefit claims, following a successful pilot. The majority of new claimants will be able to use... - [Scottish budget hikes income tax for higher earners](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/scottish-budget-hikes-income-tax-for-higher-earners/) — Income tax is a fully devolved matter in Scotland – at least in respect of the rates and thresholds that apply. The Scottish government must,... - [Changes to VAT zero rating imminent](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/changes-to-vat-zero-rating-imminent/) — The government often uses tax policy to encourage the use of energy efficient/otherwise environmentally friendly technologies. Currently, the purchase of certain energy-saving materials (ESM) is... - [Taxpayer uses AI to argue against penalty](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/taxpayer-uses-ai-to-argue-against-penalty/) — Mrs Harber (H) received a penalty from HMRC for failing to notify a capital gains tax liability. She appealed to the First-tier Tribunal on the... - [Are camping pods “buildings” for capital allowances purposes?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/are-camping-pods-buildings-for-capital-allowances-purposes/) — The company, Acorn Venture Ltd (AV), purchased 26 camping pods to provide accommodation for school children and teachers on residential trips. The cost of the... - [Criteria for self-assessment are changing](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/criteria-for-self-assessment-are-changing/) — If your tax affairs are relatively straightforward, it can be very frustrating to have to complete a tax return every year. In the past, HMRC... - [Latest advisory fuel rates published 2023](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/latest-advisory-fuel-rates-published/) — The advisory fuel rates published by HMRC set fixed amounts that can be paid to an employee using a company car for business mileage, without... - [Largest increase to the minimum wage announced](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/largest-increase-to-the-minimum-wage-announced/) — Accepting the recommendations of the Low Pay Commission in full, the government has confirmed that it will be increasing the NLW and NMW rates from... - [HMRC declares tax planning option for landlords ineffective](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-declares-tax-planning-option-for-landlords-ineffective/) — HMRC is aware of a tax avoidance scheme being marketed as a tax planning option for property landlords. This scheme is sometimes referred to as... - [All budget dates now confirmed](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/all-budget-dates-now-confirmed/) — The UK Autumn Budget takes place on 22 November – next Wednesday. Of course, this makes draft legislation that affects the whole UK, but Scotland... - [Tribunal rules on whether expenditure was deductible for capital gains tax](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tribunal-rules-on-whether-expenditure-was-deductible-for-capital-gains-tax/) — Case background Wayne Bottomer (W) had money to invest in the property market. Stuart Bottomer (S), an accountant and distant relation, put him on to... - [New online tool for checking marriage allowance eligibility](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-online-tool-for-checking-marriage-allowance-eligibility/) — The personal allowance is a fixed amount that each individual can earn before income tax is charged each year. In some circumstances, it may be... - [HMRC scraps paper VAT registration](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-scraps-paper-vat-registration/) — In another bid to encourage taxpayers to go digital, HMRC will scrap Form VAT1, which is currently used to apply for VAT registration by post.... - [HMRC issues reminder of saving scheme](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-issues-reminder-of-saving-scheme/) — In the press release, HMRC confirmed that £146 million in bonus payments have been received by savers since the HTS scheme launched in 2018. Over... - [Wedding venue left jilted at tribunal](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/wedding-venue-left-jilted-at-tribunal/) — Helen Butler (B) was the member of a limited liability partnership (LLP) that had multiple activities, including farming, commercial letting, and hosting wedding events in... - [Paper filing date approaching fast](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/paper-filing-date-approaching-fast/) — Currently, the self-assessment system is mainly processed in arrears, i.e. returns and payments are due after the end of the tax year. Most taxpayers have... - [HMRC launches remittance basis toolkit](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-launches-remittance-basis-toolkit/) — The remittance basis is available to those that are not domiciled in the UK. Where a claim is made (or the remittance basis applies automatically),... - [HMRC corrects guidance on company-owned EV car charging](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-corrects-guidance-on-company-owned-ev-car-charging/) — The tax and NI rules surrounding wholly electric vehicles (EVs) are more generous than for other company cars. This treatment extends to reimbursement of costs... - [Tribunal issues warning to deter doubtful SDLT claims](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tribunal-issues-warning-to-deter-doubtful-sdlt-claims/) — Henderson Acquisitions Ltd purchased a property after the occupant died, paying the residential rates of stamp duty land tax (SDLT). Shortly after this, Mr Henderson... - [HMRC won’t appeal NI decision](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-wont-appeal-ni-decision/) — The Upper Tribunal (UT) simultaneously considered two similar but unconnected disputes: Laing O’Rourke Services Ltd (L) v HMRC and Willmott Dixon Holdings Ltd (W) v HMRC . Both companies... - [Lord Sugar falls foul of little-known residence rule](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/lord-sugar-falls-foul-of-little-known-residence-rule/) — Tax residence has been on a statutory footing since 2013, so it’s usually easy to determine someone’s residence as long as they have kept accurate... - [HMRC reopens self-assessment helpline](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-reopens-self-assessment-helpline/) — In June, the self-assessment helpline (0300 200 3310) closed in order for staff to be redeployed to help backlogs in other areas. The helpline is... - [HMRC issues reminder about new R&D tax relief rules](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-issues-reminder-about-new-rd-tax-relief-rules/) — R&D tax relief allows companies to claim corporation tax relief for expenditure relating to qualifying projects. Since 8 August 2023, an additional information form has... - [Basis period reform – HMRC to provide online overlap relief form](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/basis-period-reform-hmrc-to-provide-online-overlap-relief-form/) — If you’re a sole trader or partner and your business accounting year end date doesn’t fall between 31 March to 5 April (inclusive), you will... - [HMRC appeals Lineker decision](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-appeals-lineker-decision/) — Perhaps unsurprisingly, following HMRC’s loss at the First-tier Tribunal (FTT), it isn’t giving up on its dispute with Gary Lineker (L). It has appealed against... - [Government to simplify collection of high income child benefit charge](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-to-simplify-collection-of-high-income-child-benefit-charge/) — In a recent announcement it was confirmed that changes will be made to simplify the collection/payment of the high income child benefit charge (HICBC). Currently, those liable to... - [HMRC Launches PAYE code tool](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-launches-paye-code-tool/) — Your tax code is what your employer or pension provider uses to deduct tax from your payments. When changes are required, you are sent a... - [Taxpayer loses child benefit charge row in unusual circumstances](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/taxpayer-loses-child-benefit-charge-row-in-unusual-circumstances/) — Mr Meades (M) and his first wife had a child in 2012, but separated in July 2017 and divorced on 4 April 2019. During the 2019/20... - [Tax-efficient pension contributions for your partner](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tax-efficient-pension-contributions-for-your-partner/) — A business associate says he gets a tax break by getting his company to pay a pension contribution for his spouse who’s currently not working.... - [Break in letting: has the business ceased?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/break-in-letting-has-the-business-ceased/) — Your long-standing tenant has moved out of your buy-to-let property and you haven’t yet found another. You’re still incurring costs on the property but as... - [Are you due an NI refund?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/are-you-due-an-ni-refund/) — There are good reasons for keeping a close eye on your NI contributions. For example, they are key to your entitlement to the state pension... - [HMRC encourages UK Trader Scheme users to take action by 31 July 2023](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/uk-trader-scheme/) — Any business using the UK Trader Scheme should already be aware that it will cease to exist from 30 September 2023. A new scheme will... - [Further rise in HMRC interest rates confirmed](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/further-rise-in-hmrc-interest-rates-confirmed/) — Following the 13th consecutive increase in the Bank of England (BoE) base rate, HMRC’s interest rates on overpaid or underpaid tax will also increase. What... - [Key tax deadline approaching](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/key-tax-deadline-approaching/) — The first week of July brings another key tax deadline for employers. What needs to be submitted, and when is the due date? As an... - [Making Tax Digital scheme five times over initial budget](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/making-tax-digital-scheme-five-times-over-initial-budget/) — The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) has criticised HMRC’s handling of the Making Tax Digital project, saying it has spiralled out of control. What’s happened,... - [Deadline to catch up on NI contributions extended](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/deadline-to-catch-up-on-ni-contributions-extended/) — An opportunity to fill gaps in your NI contribution history back to 2006 was due to end on 31 July 2023. The government has just... - [HMRC resource shortage spreads to self-assessment](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-resource-shortage-spreads-to-self-assessment/) — HMRC has announced that the general self-assessment helpline will be closed to taxpayers for several months. When will it reopen, and what should you do... - [HMRC launches online application for time to pay arrangements](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-launches-online-application-for-time-to-pay-arrangements/) — HMRC has launched an online application process for VAT time to pay arrangements. Is this option available for your business? Due to the new service, eligible... - [Latest AFRs released. What’s new?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/latest-afrs-released-whats-new/) — HMRC has published its latest advisory fuel rates for company cars. Diesel rates have been cut, reflecting falling pump prices. What’s the full story? Advisory... - [Tax return threshold to rise in 2023/24](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tax-return-threshold-to-rise-in-2023-24/) — HMRC has announced a change in the threshold at which taxpayers need to complete a tax return. What’s the new threshold, and what do you... - [Interest on unpaid tax bills increases again](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/interest-on-unpaid-tax-bills-increases-again/) — The Bank of England’s base rate has crept up again, causing late payment interest rates to increase from next week. What are the new charges,... - [HMRC confirms closure of VAT helpline](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-confirms-closure-of-vat-helpline/) — The VAT registration helpline, which many businesses use to raise queries about whether they need to register for VAT, is to be closed at very... - [Rat-infested property is “suitable for use as a dwelling”](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/rat-infested-property-is-suitable-for-use-as-a-dwelling/) — The First-tier Tribunal has found that a property in disrepair, inhabited by rodents, is still suitable for use as a dwelling for tax purposes. This... - [HMRC changes policy on time-to-pay arrangements](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-changes-policy-on-time-to-pay-arrangements/) — The loan charge in respect of historic use of “disguised remuneration” schemes is one of the most controversial enforcement policies in existence. If you owe... - [HMRC services disrupted by strikes](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-services-disrupted-by-strikes/) — You may experience difficulty or severe delays contacting HMRC’s helplines over the next few weeks, with several strikes planned. What are the scheduled dates, and... - [HMRC announces new service to help with basis period reform](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-announces-new-service-to-help-with-basis-period-reform/) — From 2024/25, all unincorporated businesses will have to report their profits using a tax year basis period. The current tax year is a transitional year,... - [Have your say on the future of stamp taxes on shares](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/have-your-say-on-the-future-of-stamp-taxes-on-shares/) — HMRC has launched a consultation on simplifying stamp taxes on share transactions. What are the proposed alternatives and how can you have your say on... - [New fuel scale charge flat rates apply from next week](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-fuel-scale-charge-flat-rates-apply-from-next-week/) — The fuel scale charge is one option for accounting for VAT where an employer pays for fuel costs and there is a mix of business... - [Don’t be confused by HMRC’s simple assessments](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/dont-be-confused-by-hmrcs-simple-assessments/) — The way simple assessment liabilities could be notified changed last year. However, many taxpayers that opted for electronic communication are now receiving paper assessments. Does... - [HMRC cracking down on R&D claims](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-cracking-down-on-rd-claims/) — Companies that undertake research and development (R&D) should be aware that more information will be required when claiming the associated tax relief from 1 August... - [Online PSA service now available](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/online-psa-service-now-available/) — A PAYE settlement agreement (PSA) is a handy way for employers to settle tax on minor or infrequent benefits provided to employees. A PSA needs... - [Payment of pension arrears could mean tax bill](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/payment-of-pension-arrears-could-mean-tax-bill/) — A large number of people have been underpaid their state pension. Payment of what’s owing is underway but if you receive such a payment, it... - [Match of the Day for HMRC?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/match-of-the-day-for-hmrc/) — HMRC has been targeting media personalities with the IR35 rules, with partial success. Two more high profile cases have been heard. Who were the winners... - [HMRC push for more online filing](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-push-for-more-online-filing/) — With a gradual shift toward tax administration becoming digital, HMRC have quietly announced that the way certain forms can be filed will change this year.... - [Yet another interest rate increase on the way](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/yet-another-interest-rate-increase-on-the-way/) — Late payment interest rates will increase from next week because of a further rise in the Bank of England’s base rate. What are the new... - [Cut to CGT exempt amount imminent](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/cut-to-cgt-exempt-amount-imminent/) — It’s always a good idea to try to utilise your capital gains tax (CGT) annual exempt amount before the end of the tax year. However,... - [R&D tax credits increasing to 14.5% for loss makers](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/rd-tax-credits-increasing-to-14-5-for-loss-makers/) — A new R&D scheme will be introduced for SMEs from 1 April 2023. What’s it all about? R&D intensive SMEs will be able to claim... - [Companies to enjoy full expensing for capital items](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/companies-to-enjoy-full-expensing-for-capital-items/) — The Budget included welcome news for companies facing the end of the super-deduction later this month, with a period of full capital expensing announced. What... - [HMRC’s official rate of interest set to rise to 2.25%](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrcs-official-rate-of-interest-set-to-rise-to-2-25/) — HMRC’s official rate of interest will increase to 2.25% from 6 April 2023. What does it apply to? HMRC’s official rate of interest (ORI) will... - [Deadline for voluntary NI contributions extended](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/deadline-for-voluntary-ni-contributions-extended/) — There’s currently a window of opportunity to fill gaps in your NI contribution history. This was scheduled to close after 5 April 2023, but the... - [Short window to secure cash-flow advantage](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/short-window-to-secure-cash-flow-advantage/) — Usually, where you make a gain on a UK residential property where there will be a tax liability it must be reported to HMRC within... - [Beware of HMRC delays when setting up PAYE direct debits](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/beware-of-hmrc-delays-when-setting-up-paye-direct-debits/) — One of the professional accountancy bodies is warning that employers need to allow additional time to set up new variable direct debits for PAYE. Why?... - [HMRC shuts down repayment agent](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-shuts-down-repayment-agent/) — HMRC has previously announced an increase in protective measures for individuals dealing with so-called “repayment agents”. Now, one such agent has been ordered to cease... - [Don’t miss out on Tax-Free Childcare](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/dont-miss-out-on-tax-free-childcare/) — HMRC has reported that over 400,000 families used the Tax-Free Childcare (TFC) scheme in December. Now it’s urging families to check their eligibility so they... - [HMRC sends Valentine’s message to couples](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-sends-valentines-message-to-couples/) — HMRC is urging married couples/civil partners to check whether they are entitled to claim the marriage allowance. What is it, are you eligible and how... - [Late payment interest rises again](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/late-payment-interest-rises-again/) — A further increase in the Bank of England’s base rate means that HMRC’s late payment interest rates will rise again next week. What will the... - [HMRC explains timetable for moving to new service](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-explains-timetable-for-moving-to-new-service/) — The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) will be the mandatory way to make export declarations from 1 December 2023, but at the moment not all businesses... - [HMRC confirms penalty for non-compliant trusts](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-confirms-penalty-for-non-compliant-trusts/) — The trust registration service was introduced to provide HMRC with details about trust assets and beneficiaries – to help prevent money laundering. Initially, only trusts... - [Rugby pundit wins ruck with HMRC](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/rugby-pundit-wins-ruck-with-hmrc/) — Stuart Barnes (B) provided his services through a company, S&L Barnes Limited (S). These services were provided to various media platforms, including newspapers, magazines and... - [Tax deposit certificates need to be used this year](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tax-deposit-certificates-need-to-be-used-this-year/) — A CTD could previously be purchased as a way to lodge money with HMRC in advance of an actual tax liability and, until 2017, was... - [Option to tax changes from 1 February](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/option-to-tax-changes-from-1-february/) — By making an option to tax, a business can charge VAT (and therefore recover input VAT) on the sale or letting of land or non-residential... - [Tribunal says personal liability notice was valid](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/tribunal-says-personal-liability-notice-was-valid/) — Mr Wagstaff (W) was the sole director of Warehouse Holdings Ltd (WHL). WHL entered into a creditors’ voluntary liquidation in November 2015. HMRC later issued a... - [Government crackdown on repayment agents](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/government-crackdown-on-repayment-agents/) — So-called repayment agents have popped up all over the place in recent years. It’s virtually impossible to browse social media without seeing an ad asking... - [Return filing season likely to be even busier than normal](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/return-filing-season-likely-to-be-even-busier-than-normal/) — If the tax return filing deadline is missed, an automatic penalty of £100 is charged – even if there is no tax due, or a... - [HMRC makes changes to UK property returns](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-makes-changes-to-uk-property-returns/) — A UK property return needs to be filed within 60 days of completion of a UK property disposal – this will usually involve a sale... - [MTD ITSA delayed for two years](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/mtd-itsa-delayed-for-two-years/) — In a statement released on 19 December, the government has finally acknowledged that MTD ITSA is a significant change for all concerned, and that launching during an... - [Scottish budget approved – after furore!](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/scottish-budget-approved-after-furore/) — Scotland determines its income tax rates for earned income (but not investment income) separately from the rest of the UK. The latest Budget announcements signalled an... - [New VAT penalty regime to start in January 2023](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/new-vat-penalty-regime-to-start-in-january-2023/) — There are a number of problems with the current VAT penalty system, the default surcharge. One is that a business paying just one day late... - [Don’t miss key December deadline](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/dont-miss-key-december-deadline/) — January is the busiest month for tax return filings each year – more than half a million returns were filed on 31 January 2022 alone.... - [When is a dividend “paid” for tax purposes?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/when-is-a-dividend-paid-for-tax-purposes/) — In the case in question, two shareholders were voted £20 million each by resolution on 31 March 2016. Shareholder A was paid on 5 April... - [Coronavirus still causing HMRC issues](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/coronavirus-still-causing-hmrc-issues/) — Voluntary Class 2 NI is generally paid by people who are self-employed but do not exceed the small profits threshold. For just £3.15 per week,... - [Online advance assurance applications now available](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/online-advance-assurance-applications-now-available/) — The new service is for companies and their authorised agents to complete and submit applications and all supporting documents online, directly to HMRC’s Venture Capital... - [Time to pay arrangements – now much easier to agree](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/time-to-pay-arrangements-now-much-easier-to-agree/) — TTP arrangements are informal agreements between the taxpayer and HMRC in situations where the self-assessment bill can’t be paid in full by the deadline. Instead,... - [Latest advisory rates bring welcome boost for EV owners](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/latest-advisory-rates-bring-welcome-boost-for-ev-owners/) — Advisory fuel rates for company cars are published by HMRC on a quarterly basis. The benefit to using the rates is that there will be... - [Stamp duty land tax cut retained – for now](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/stamp-duty-land-tax-cut-retained-for-now/) — Jeremy Hunt’s first budget as Chancellor was marked by tax rises, albeit using “fiscal drag” rather than raising rates. This method raises additional revenue by... - [PAYE direct debits – interest application](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/paye-direct-debits-interest-application/) — The new system is intended to reduce administration for employers, who would previously have to set up a new direct debit each month. However, there... - [Is HMRC’s new app any good?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/is-hmrcs-new-app-any-good/) — HMRC’s new app doesn’t allow you to file a tax return – at least not yet. However, it does allow you to access a lot... - [Further increase to HMRC late payment interest](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/further-increase-to-hmrc-late-payment-interest/) — As HMRC’s late payment and repayment interest rates are linked to the base rate, they are also set to increase. From 14 November 2022 the... - [HMRC targets “significant” shareholders](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-targets-significant-shareholders/) — Nudge letters are being increasingly used by HMRC in recent years. They are generally sent to individuals that HMRC thinks may not have fully declared... - [Don’t forget to declare coronavirus grants on tax returns](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/dont-forget-to-declare-coronavirus-grants-on-tax-returns/) — It’s over a year since the final tranche of payments under the self-employment income support scheme (SEISS) closed for application. As a result, it’s easy... - [October 31 tax return deadline approaching fast](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/october-31-tax-return-deadline-approaching-fast/) — If you’re within self-assessment, you’re probably aware that 31 January each year is the filing date. However, it’s often overlooked that there’s an alternative deadline of... - [HMRC urges parents to use tax-free childcare](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-urges-parents-to-use-tax-free-childcare/) — A press release titled “£2,000 in government funding available to help with childcare costs” is reminding parents that they can cut their childcare bills using the Tax-Free... - [HMRC launches new residence tool](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-launches-new-residence-tool/) — HMRC’s new “Check your UK residence status” tool can be used to check your tax residence going back to 2016/17. It’s basically an interactive run... - [What’s left from the mini-budget?](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/whats-left-from-the-mini-budget/) — Jeremy Hunt has today announced that the cutting of the basic rate of income tax, from 20% to 19%, would be postponed indefinitely – until... - [Corporation tax u-turn – as expected](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/corporation-tax-u-turn-as-expected/) — Despite numerous assurances that the government would press ahead with its tax-cutting measures in the face of strongly negative political and economic reactions, the Prime... - [HMRC issues new fraud warning](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-issues-new-fraud-warning/) — Fraud involving bogus contact purporting to be from HMRC is on the increase. Its latest press release, issued this week, reports that in the year to... - [VAT online service to be withdrawn soon](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/vat-online-service-to-be-withdrawn-soon/) — The option to complete VAT returns using the online VAT account will be removed from 1 November 2022, unless your business is exempt from the... - [Chancellor u-turns on top rate of tax](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/chancellor-u-turns-on-top-rate-of-tax/) — The Chancellor has confirmed that the tax cut will not go ahead, due to the distractions this policy has caused. From 6 April 2023 those... - [Welsh government announces land transaction tax changes](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/welsh-government-announces-land-transaction-tax-changes/) — The mini-Budget last week included big cuts to SDLT for all buyers of residential property. It was perhaps inevitable that the devolved governments would follow... - [Reversal of National Insurance rate increase confirmed](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/reversal-of-national-insurance-rate-increase-confirmed/) — The new Prime Minister’s leadership campaign included a very vocal pledge to scrap the NI rate increase that took effect in April 2022. As a... - [HMRC updates online error reporting form](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/hmrc-updates-online-error-reporting-form/) — The new online digital form for correcting VAT return errors went live in August 2022. It is now HMRC’s preferred option, and it is encouraging... - [Variable payment plan goes live on 19th September](https://www.darnells.co.uk/industry-news/variable-payment-plan-goes-live-on-19th-september/) — The current system for paying monthly payroll deductions by direct debit (DD) requires employers to set up a new direct debit for each payment. This...