Institute for Fiscal Studies director, Paul Johnson, recently spoke at the annual Chartered Tax Advisor Address. He pointed out a number of the unnecessary complications and policies that have left the UK tax system more complex and less efficient. “For example: There is a basic rate of income tax of 20%, a higher rate of 40% and a top rate Continue Reading
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Why it’s important to plan
Consider this case study: Bill Smith, a self-employed electrician, purchased a brand new van 15 March 2014 for £18,000. Due to a downturn in the local economy his trading profits for the year to 31 March 2014 were just £9,400. Fortunately, he had secured a number of regular contracts for the following year that should net at least £30,000 in the Continue Reading
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NIC employment allowance
HMRC have published further clarification regarding who can, or cannot, claim the new £2,000 a year NIC Employment Allowance. Extracts from the update are set out below: Public authorities Public authorities (such as local authorities, town councils and parish councils) are not eligible for the Employment Allowance unless they have charitable status. Pharmacies Independent pharmacies conducting a business, including over Continue Reading
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Small business VAT scheme
If you are a registered VAT trader and your present turnover is below £150,000 you may be advised to take a look at the VAT Flat Rate Scheme (FRS). FRS users pay VAT as a fixed percentage of their total sales including VAT. You still add 20% VAT to your invoices but you cannot reclaim VAT on purchases or expenses Continue Reading
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