Identity verification requirements at Companies House became a legal requirement for directors and people with significant control (PSCs) from 18 November 2025. This date marked the start of a 12-month transition period for identity verification. Companies House is introducing the new requirements on a phased basis and affected individuals are being contacted directly with guidance […]
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Making gifts during your lifetime can be an effective way to reduce the value of your estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes. One of the most commonly used exemptions is the annual exemption. This allows an individual to give away up to £3,000 each tax year without the gift forming part of their estate for […]
Dividends are taxed differently from other types of income, with separate allowances and tax rates that depend on your overall level of income. You do not pay tax on dividends that fall within your Personal Allowance (2026-27: £12,570), and there is also a separate tax-free dividend allowance of £500 each year. Any dividend income above […]
The government has announced a package of measures intended to protect motorists and businesses from the recent rise in fuel costs, following growing concern over the impact higher oil prices may have on inflation, household finances and business operating costs. The measures include an extension of the existing 5 pence per litre fuel duty reduction, […]
Many taxpayers continue to leave their Self-Assessment tax return until the final weeks before the 31 January filing deadline. Unfortunately, delaying preparation often increases stress levels, creates unnecessary pressure and reduces the opportunity to plan effectively. Preparing your tax return earlier in the tax year can provide a number of practical and financial advantages. Know […]
Cyber-crime is no longer a problem that affects only large corporations or international organisations. Increasingly, smaller businesses are being targeted because criminals often assume that security systems, staff training and internal controls may be weaker. For many businesses, the financial and operational consequences of a successful cyber-attack can be severe. A cyber incident can lead […]
For many businesses, trading conditions remain difficult despite signs that inflationary pressures may be easing in some parts of the economy. A growing number of business owners are discovering that although sales may appear stable, cash reserves are steadily coming under pressure as operating costs continue to rise across multiple areas of the business. This […]
There has been considerable discussion over the past year regarding proposed changes to Companies House filing requirements, in particular the suggestion that small companies would be required to file a profit and loss account on the public record. Recent updates published on the GOV.UK website have now clarified the position. The proposed requirement has not […]
The ongoing conflict in Iran and the wider Middle East is beginning to have economic consequences that are likely to be felt by UK businesses over the coming months. While the situation remains uncertain, press commentary and early government signals provide a useful indication of how the impact may unfold and how policymakers may respond. […]
Pensioners are being urged to stay vigilant for any Winter Fuel Payment scams. HMRC is starting to recover Winter Fuel Payments issued for winter 2025 from those earning over £35,000 a year. While the process will affect nearly two million people, most will see the repayment handled automatically through adjustments to their PAYE tax code […]