Author Archives: chalmers2020

It was confirmed with the publication of the draft Finance Bill 2025-26 that measures first announced in the Autumn Budget 2024 to bring most unused pension funds and death benefits into the scope of Inheritance Tax (IHT) will start from 6 April 2027. This will significantly extend the IHT net, capturing pensions that were previously […]

To support taxpayers, HMRC has introduced new digital services as part of its Transformation Roadmap, making it easier to manage Self-Assessment tax affairs online. What’s new? Easier registration and opt-out for Self-Assessment. Improved on-screen messages to reduce uncertainty and limit the need to chase HMRC. A better online appeal process for late filing and late […]

HMRC has launched a new digital service that allows millions of UK workers to take more control over their tax affairs. The tool, available through the Personal Tax Account and HMRC app, is designed for individuals who pay tax through PAYE. It lets users view and update their income details, allowances, reliefs, and job-related expenses […]

Draft legislation for the Finance Bill 2025-26 confirms a major shake-up to Inheritance Tax (IHT), affecting estates that include business assets, agricultural land, and pension funds. The proposed changes, announced on 21 July, aim to tighten reliefs and bring more value into the scope of IHT. The impact could be significant for business owners, farmers, […]

On 15 July, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, unveiled a set of changes to the UK’s financial system. These reforms are designed to encourage investment, make it easier to buy a home, improve pension outcomes, and remove unnecessary red tape. While much of the detail will unfold in the coming months, the changes already announced could […]

Inboxes can quickly become overwhelming. Whether you receive ten or a hundred emails a day, it does not take much for things to spiral out of control. Before you know it, your inbox is full of unread messages, missed deadlines, and stress-inducing clutter. The good news is that managing your inbox does not have to […]

With inflation cooling, interest rates nearing their peak, and a new government in place, the UK economy is showing signs of cautious recovery. However, not all sectors are moving in the same direction. Some industries are bouncing back strongly, while others continue to lag. Here is a snapshot of the three best-performing and three worst-performing […]

Is your child starting school this September? Tax-Free Childcare could save you up to £2,000 a year. Check your eligibility now and start planning ahead. Working families whose children are starting school for the first time September 2025 could save up to £2,000 a year per child on their childcare bills, thanks to the government’s […]

With the public finances showing structural cracks, thanks to an estimated £20 billion to £30 billion hole in next year’s budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing an unenviable challenge. The Office for Budget Responsibility has flagged rising debt, pension obligations, and hefty costs associated with the climate transition as daunting risks to Britain’s fiscal health. […]

Proposed changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) are causing alarm in the UK farming community. If introduced as expected from April 2026, new rules could see agricultural estates over £1 million subject to 20% IHT, even when the land or business is still being farmed by the next generation. This potential shift in the tax regime […]