As we close the books on December and January, Tax Affinity Accountants couldn’t be prouder of the incredible results we delivered for our clients during this crucial period. The Self Assessment deadline for HMRC has come and gone, and once again, our clients are experiencing the benefits of working with a team that not only meets deadlines but ensures the best possible tax outcomes. Our firm’s dedication to providing personalized, efficient, and effective tax services has proven to be invaluable during one of the busiest times of the year.
The numbers are in, and we’ve exceeded expectations across the board. With the highest number of referrals in our history, we are humbled by the trust our clients continue to place in us. Our reputation for delivering outstanding results has never been stronger, and as a result, more and more people are turning to Tax Affinity Accountants for expert guidance on how to save on taxes and maximize their hard-earned money. In this post, we’ll explore how Tax Affinity Accountants rose to the occasion during the Self Assessment season, the satisfaction our clients enjoyed, and why now is the perfect time to consider switching to a tax team that actually understands your needs and can put you on the path to better tax outcomes. The HMRC Self Assessment Deadline: A Busy Period for Accountants and Taxpayers Alike The Self Assessment tax return deadline for HMRC is one of the most significant dates in every freelancer, contractor, sole trader, and small business owner’s calendar. As many people know, the 31st of January is the final day for submitting tax returns for the previous financial year, and the stress of meeting that deadline can be overwhelming. With penalties for late submissions and the risk of costly errors, it’s no surprise that many individuals and businesses turn to professional accountants for help. This past December and January, our team at Tax Affinity Accountants worked tirelessly to ensure that our clients’ tax returns were submitted accurately and on time. Our expert accountants handled a wide range of complex scenarios, from straightforward self-assessments to more intricate tax situations involving multiple income streams, investments, property portfolios, and international tax issues. Regardless of the complexity, we ensured that all our clients received tailored advice and support to help them navigate the Self Assessment process with ease. Our clients benefit from the comprehensive knowledge we have of current tax laws, and we worked diligently to ensure they understood their obligations while also taking advantage of every allowable deduction and relief available. The peace of mind that comes with having experienced professionals in your corner during such an important and stressful time cannot be overstated. Client Delight: Low Taxes, Timely Returns, and Maximum Savings What sets Tax Affinity Accountants apart from other tax firms is our commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for our clients. Throughout December and January, we received glowing feedback from individuals and businesses who were delighted with the results we achieved for them. By applying our deep expertise in tax planning and optimization, we were able to significantly reduce the tax liabilities of many clients. This is what truly excites us—helping individuals keep more of what they’ve earned. Whether it’s taking full advantage of allowable tax deductions, advising on tax-efficient investments, or utilizing strategies to minimize National Insurance contributions, we’re always looking for new and creative ways to reduce our clients’ tax burdens. One example involved a small business owner who had previously been using a generic online tax software to file their returns. While the software was quick, it didn’t provide them with the tailored advice they needed to make the most of their tax position. After switching to Tax Affinity Accountants, we identified numerous opportunities for tax savings, including business expenses they had overlooked and potential claims for tax relief that they didn’t know about. As a result, the business owner’s tax bill was reduced by a significant amount—enough to reinvest in their business, expand operations, and increase profits. We’ve also worked with several high-earning individuals who were struggling with their tax obligations. By applying a strategic approach to tax planning and ensuring they understood the implications of different income streams, we were able to optimize their tax position and save them thousands of pounds. When clients come to us seeking clarity and guidance, we don’t just meet their needs; we exceed them, delivering tax returns that maximize their savings while ensuring full compliance with HMRC. At Tax Affinity Accountants, our clients are the center of everything we do. The positive feedback and appreciation we received during the January rush are a testament to the hard work we put in and our unwavering commitment to providing top-notch service. Our clients know they can count on us to not only meet the deadlines but also to deliver the best tax outcomes. The Highest Number of Referrals in Our HistoryOur clients don’t just trust us—they recommend us to their friends, family, and colleagues. During the December and January rush, we received an unprecedented number of referrals, making it clear that our reputation for delivering outstanding results is growing faster than ever. Referrals are the highest compliment we can receive, and we take great pride in knowing that our clients are not only satisfied with our services but are so confident in our ability to help others that they actively refer us to people they know. It’s also a sign that more and more individuals and businesses are realizing the value of working with an accountant who genuinely understands their financial goals and strives to help them save on taxes. This year’s increase in referrals is a direct reflection of the exceptional results we consistently achieve for our clients. From freelancers and contractors to business owners and high-net-worth individuals, we’re proud to be the trusted partner that so many people turn to for expert tax advice. And as our client base continues to grow, we’re excited to help even more people take control of their tax positions and keep more of their hard-earned money. Why Switch to Tax Affinity Accountants? If you’re currently working with an accountant who isn’t delivering the results you expect or feel that your tax bills are higher than they should be, now is the perfect time to make the switch to Tax Affinity Accountants. Here’s why:
If you’re ready to take control of your taxes and start working with a firm that truly understands how to maximize your savings, Tax Affinity Accountants is here to help. With our team of experts by your side, you’ll never have to worry about missed deadlines, unnecessary penalties, or overpaid taxes again. Don’t let another year go by paying more than you need to. Reach out to us today for a consultation and discover how much we can help you save. Whether you’re switching from another accountant or looking for a new tax partner, Tax Affinity Accountants is here to provide the expert service, advice, and savings you deserve. Contact us now, and let’s start working on a tax strategy that works for you. Together, we’ll make this year the best one yet! Disclaimer: Tax Affinity Accountants is a leading accounting firm specializing in tax planning, advice, and compliance services. We work with individuals, freelancers, contractors, business owners, and high-net-worth individuals across the UK to help them maximize their tax savings and optimise their financial strategies. Please visit www.taxaffinity.com to learn more about our services and book a consultation. By Anni Khan at Tax Affinity Accountants Tax Affinity Accountants are experts Business, Tax and Accountancy. With branches in Worcester Park and Kingston upon Thames and Epsom and Ewell they are considered in the Industry to be expert business accountants and tax advisors for both individuals and small & medium sized businesses (SME's). Helping and supporting both individuals and limited company owners / self employed people throughout the UK and the world, they regularly help clients grow their business providing tailored advice and support. Their support has been considered invaluable by many clients and key to their success. For more information visit www.taxaffinity.com. To read more interesting articles like this visit www.taxaffinity.com/blog. Please feel free to comment and share this with your friends.
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Understanding the Recent Bank of England Rate Cut: Implications for UK Business Owners and Mortgage Holders
Last Thursday, 1st Aug 2024, the Bank of England made a pivotal decision to lower interest rates by 0.25%. This move, aimed at stimulating economic growth amid uncertain economic conditions has significant implications for both business owners and mortgage holders across the UK. Let’s explore what this rate cut means for you and how our accountants can guide you through it. What does the rate cut mean? The Bank of England’s decision to cut interest rates to 5% is primarily designed to make borrowing cheaper and encourage spending, which can boost economic activity. Impact on Business Owners For business owners, the reduction in interest rates presents both opportunities and challenges:
Impact on Mortgage Holders For mortgage holders, the 0.25% rate cut can lead to significant savings and financial relief:
Strategic Considerations While the interest rate cut presents clear benefits, it’s essential for both business owners and mortgage holders to think strategically: Assess your financial health: Before taking on new debt, ensure your financial situation is stable and that you have a solid plan for repayment. Consider Long-Term Goals: Align borrowing decisions with your long-term financial and business goals. Don’t be swayed solely by the allure of lower rates. Stay Informed: Economic conditions can change rapidly. Keep abreast of financial news and be prepared to adapt your strategies as needed. Conclusion The bank of England’s decision to lower interest rates by 0.25% is a significant development for the UK economy. For business owners, it can provide opportunities for growth and expansion. We know how it offers a chance to save money and improve financial stability for mortgage holders and by understanding the implications and making informed decisions, you can take full advantage of this favorable interest rate environment. If you need personalized advice on how this rate cut affects your financial situation, feel free to contact our team. As expert tax accountants, we are here to help you navigate these changes and make the most of the opportunities they present. By Anni Khan at Tax Affinity Accountants Tax Affinity Accountants are experts Business, Tax and Accountancy. With branches in Worcester Park and Kingston upon Thames and Epsom and Ewell they are considered in the Industry to be expert business accountants and tax advisors for both individuals and small & medium sized businesses (SME's). Helping and supporting both individuals and limited company owners / self employed people throughout the UK and the world, they regularly help clients grow their business providing tailored advice and support. Their support has been considered invaluable by many clients and key to their success. For more information visit www.taxaffinity.com. To read more interesting articles like this visit www.taxaffinity.com/blog. Please feel free to comment and share this with your friends. On 6th March 2024 the UK Chancellor announced the Spring Budget for the UK. There were quite a few positive changes and the main points to help plan ahead are below:
Child Benefit Changes Starting April 2024, parents will receive Child Benefit as follows: £25.60 per week (£1,331 annually) for the eldest child and £16.95 per week (£881 annually) for additional children. Presently, if either parent's income exceeds £50,000, the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) takes effect, requiring repayment of Child Benefit once income surpasses £60,000. This necessitates completing a self-assessment tax return. As of April 6, 2024, the threshold rises to £60,000 with a gradual taper, fully recouping Child Benefit when income exceeds £80,000. By April 2026, the clawback assessment will shift to a "household income" basis, pending HMRC adjustments. The 2024 threshold increase will lower the combined tax rate (HICBC, income tax, and NIC) on incomes above £60,000, encouraging parents to earn more. Eventually, transitioning to a "household income" basis should create fairer outcomes for families, albeit HMRC implementation challenges may arise. Changing the Non-Domiciled (non-dom) status and tax treatment The government plans to end the current tax treatment for UK resident non-domiciled individuals (non-doms) starting April 6, 2025. This regime, in place for over 200 years, allowed UK residents with permanent homes abroad to avoid UK tax on foreign income and gains (FIG) unless brought into the UK. It also shielded non-UK assets from Inheritance Tax. As of April 6, 2025, the current remittance basis will be replaced by a new residence-based test lasting four years for those who have been non-UK residents for at least the prior ten tax years. During this period, newcomers won't pay tax on foreign income or trust distributions brought into the UK. However, they'll lose personal allowances and CGT exemptions. After four years, individuals will be taxed like other UK residents on worldwide income and gains. Transitional rules apply: non-doms moving from remittance to arising basis in 2025/26 will be taxed on 50% of foreign income; reduced rates for pre-6 April 2025 FIG remittances till 2027; and Capital Gains Tax rebasing for non-UK assets. Business Investment Relief continues. From April 6, 2025, settlor-interested trusts lose tax protection unless they qualify for the four-year FIG regime. Overseas workday relief remains for the first three years, depending on opting into the new regime. Inheritance Tax shifts from domicile to residence-based from April 6, 2025, with assets within ten years of UK residency potentially liable. UK sited assets remain subject to IHT. These changes simplify the non-dom tax system, but complexities persist. Transitional provisions offer time for adjustment. Current non-doms should consult their Tax Affinity adviser promptly as these are significant changes. National Insurance Class 1 Changes (Employed) Starting from an annual income of £12,570 up to £50,270, employees pay Class 1 National Insurance Contributions (NICs). The rate is currently 10% (down from 12% since January 6 this year). Above £50,270, the rate remains 2% for additional earnings. From April 6, 2024, the main rate will decrease by another 2% to 8%, potentially saving employees up to £63 monthly (£754 yearly). Employers' NICs, at 13.8% over the lower threshold, remain unchanged. This reduction benefits employees and may ease pressure on employers regarding wage hikes. Self-Employment Changes Self-employed individuals pay Class 4 NICs from £12,570 to £50,270 at 9% (dropping to 8% from April 6, 2024). Above this threshold, the rate stays at 2%. Starting April 6, 2024, the rate decreases by another 2% to 6%. This saves £30 for every £1,000 of profit, up to £1,131 annually for those paying at the main Class 4 NIC rate. Class 2 NICs were abolished from April 6, 2024, offering a positive financial change for the new tax year. Capital Gains Tax When you sell residential property and make a profit, you might owe Capital Gains Tax (CGT), except when it's your main home, which is CGT exempt. If the property wasn't always your main home, only part of the gain is taxable. Currently, residential property gains are taxed at 18% for basic rate band profits and 28% thereafter. Starting April 6, 2024, the higher rate reduces to 24% for property sales. Reporting the sale within 60 days from completion is crucial. Sales exchanged before April 6, 2024, may still be taxed at 28%. Landlords affected by the abolishment of Furnished Holiday Lets tax benefits from April 2025 will see changes. From April 6, 2025, furnished holiday lettings will be treated as property investment businesses, losing several tax benefits:
Investments The Budget introduced measures to encourage individual investing and foster a stronger savings culture. Here are the key points:
VAT threshold increased The government is raising the VAT registration threshold from £85,000 to £90,000 and the deregistration threshold from £83,000 to £88,000. These changes start on April 1, 2024. Over 28,000 businesses are expected to benefit by no longer needing to register for VAT in 2024-25. Conclusion Overall this is a much better budget than the previous autumn one presented in 2023. VAT announcement is decades overdue and the drop in NI thresholds don't make that much of a real world difference when price rise percentage is way higher then the percentage drop. And again the goverment did not address any of the large multinationals raking huge profits while small businesses and the public suffer. The sale of Natwest shares in a recession (that the government used tax payers money to bail out the bank recently) needs to be critically analysed more closely as to the effective timing of the sale and real time benefit for tax payers who directly paid for this out of their pockets. At times like these its even more important to have an experience and knowledgable tax accountant in your corner. By Anni Khan at Tax Affinity Accountants Tax Affinity Accountants are experts Business, Tax and Accountancy. With branches in Worcester Park and Kingston upon Thames and Epsom and Ewell they are considered in the Industry to be expert business accountants and tax advisors for both individuals and small & medium sized businesses (SME's). Helping and supporting both individuals and limited company owners / self employed people throughout the UK and the world, they regularly help clients grow their business providing tailored advice and support. Their support has been considered invaluable by many clients and key to their success. For more information visit www.taxaffinity.com. To read more interesting articles like this visit www.taxaffinity.com/blog. Please feel free to comment and share this with your friends. Autumn statement 2023 main points for small and medium sized businesses (SME) and employees11/25/2023 Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has disclosed the UK government's fiscal plans for the upcoming year. On November 22, 2023, Hunt presented the Autumn Statement in the House of Commons, likely the last pre-election mini-budget, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hinting at a potential election in October 2025 next year.
The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has concurrently unveiled its latest economic outlook for the UK. In response to last week's news of a drop in inflation to 4.6% for the year up to October, Conservative MPs had advocated for broader tax cuts, taking advantage of what was termed as 'fiscal headroom.' Consequently, the chancellor has indeed announced tax reductions in today's statement. The focus now turns to how these revelations might impact small businesses and the self-employed. Read on for key updates affecting this sector:
Despite receiving a little bit of positive feedback, reservations linger about the effectiveness of these reforms in bolstering the strained small business sector. The increase in minimum wages rates for employees will no doubt increase costs for SME's already suffering from high utility bills - and will ultimately mean smart business owners decease the days and hours of staff. The majority of small businesses already had access to small business rates relief so nothing changed there. Finally the much talked about CGT and IHT amendments did not materialise, neither was there any focus on reigning in large energy suppliers sapping the profits out of small and medium sized business to boost their annual profits. And the loss of class 2 NI is a blow for micro businesses and sole traders who needed it to top up their state pension contributions. Overall not impressed at all. By Anni Khan at Tax Affinity Accountants Tax Affinity Accountants are experts Business, Tax and Accountancy. With branches in Worcester Park and Kingston upon Thames and Epsom and Ewell they are considered in the Industry to be expert business accountants and tax advisors for both individuals and small & medium sized businesses (SME's). Helping and supporting both individuals and limited company owners / self employed people throughout the UK and the world, they regularly help clients grow their business providing tailored advice and support. Their support has been considered invaluable by many clients and key to their success. For more information visit www.taxaffinity.com. To read more interesting articles like this visit www.taxaffinity.com/blog. Please feel free to comment and share this with your friends. |
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