Category: Latest news

In recent news, significant changes have been announced regarding National Insurance Contributions (NICs). These changes are set to take effect from January 6, 2024, and will impact both employees and self-employed individuals. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of these changes and discuss their implications for employers.

Employee Class 1 NICs Reduction

One of the key changes is the reduction in the main rate of employee Class 1 NICs. Currently set at 12%, it will be lowered by 2 percentage points to 10%. This reduction aims to alleviate the burden on employees and provide them with more take-home pay. The implementation of this change will occur from January 6, 2024.

Self-Employed Class 4 NICs Adjustment

For self-employed individuals, there will be a reduction in the main rate of Class 4 NICs. Currently at 9%, it will be decreased by 1 percentage point to 8%. Additionally, liability to pay the weekly Class 2 flat rate will be removed for those with profits above £12,570, starting from April 6, 2024. It is important to note that access to contributory benefits, including the State Pension, will still be retained by self-employed individuals.

Implications for Employers

These changes will undoubtedly have an impact on employers, particularly in terms of payroll management. Employers who handle their own payroll may find the implementation of these changes to be an administrative headache. It is crucial for employers to review their payroll processes and consider outsourcing their payroll needs to a dedicated payroll team.

By outsourcing payroll, employers can ensure that all payroll and pension legislation is dealt with accurately and efficiently. With a payroll team in place, employers can have peace of mind knowing that mid-year changes and ongoing compliance will be handled seamlessly.

Is it time to consider outsourcing?

By outsourcing payroll, employers can ensure that all payroll and pension legislation is dealt with accurately and efficiently. With a payroll team in place, employers can have peace of mind knowing that mid-year changes and ongoing compliance will be handled seamlessly.

While there will be payroll software updates and maybe some one-off costs experienced by business when changes are made, the ongoing benefits of outsourcing will likely outweigh these initial expenses. Employers can save time and resources by relying on experts to handle the complexities of payroll legislation, ensuring compliance and avoiding costly errors.

It is important for employers to be proactive in preparing for these changes. Upgrading payroll software, updating returns and employee payroll records, and communicating with employees about the adjustments are some of the necessary steps to be taken. Although some employers may face challenges in updating their payroll software before January 6, 2024, it is crucial to ensure retrospective adjustments are made to avoid any discrepancies.

Studholme-Bell: Your Payroll Partner

At Studholme-Bell, we understand the intricacies of payroll management and the ever-changing legislation surrounding National Insurance Contributions. With our expertise and experience, we can take the stress away from navigating these changes.

We proudly serve 182 businesses, handling the payroll for 872 employees. Our flexible payroll schedule accommodates weekly, monthly, and bi-weekly payrolls. We cover all aspects, including Auto Enrolment, ensuring that your business remains compliant and efficient.

Contact us today to learn more about how our payroll services can benefit your organisation in light of the upcoming National Insurance Contribution changes. Stay ahead of the curve and let us handle your payroll needs with precision and expertise.

Significant Changes in the Autumn Statement

In the recent Autumn Finance Bill, significant changes have been announced that will impact businesses and individuals alike. The ‘Full Expensing’ deduction, which allows companies to claim a 100% first-year deduction on qualifying new investments, will now be made permanent, removing the previous 2026 end date. This move is aimed at encouraging companies to invest in main-rate plant and machinery, thus stimulating growth and innovation.

Another important development is the Annual Investment Allowance, which will remain at a permanent rate of £1 million from April 2023. This allowance provides businesses with the opportunity to claim tax relief on their qualifying investments, fostering further investment and economic activity.

Income Tax Thresholds and National Insurance Rates

Turning our attention to individuals, the income tax thresholds will be frozen until April 2028. This means that the personal allowance, basic rate, and higher-rate thresholds will remain at £12,570 and £50,270 respectively. However, it is worth noting that the additional rate threshold will be reduced from £150,000 to £125,140 from 6 April 2023.

National insurance thresholds for all classes will also be frozen until April 2028. However, there will be a reduction in the rate of Class 4 NICs on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270, from 9% to 8% starting from April 2024. Additionally, Class 1 contributions for employees will be reduced from 12% to 10% from 6 January 2024.

In terms of capital gains tax, the annual exemption amount for individuals will be reduced from £12,300 to £6,000 from April 2023, and further reduced to £3,000 from April 2024. This change may have implications for individuals who engage in capital gains activities.

Lastly, the National Minimum Wage will increase to £11.44 an hour for those aged 21 and over from 1 April 2024. This increase aims to ensure fair compensation for workers and promote a thriving workforce.

State Pension Boost and Pensions Reform

Pensioners can rejoice as the state pension is set to receive a noteworthy increase for the second consecutive year. Starting from April 2024, recipients will enjoy an additional £900 annually, resulting in an 8.5% rise. This means that the full new state pension will reach £221.20 per week or £11,502.40 per year. Furthermore, the full basic state pension will increase to £169.50 per week, equivalent to £8,814 per year. These adjustments aim to provide greater financial security and support for retirees throughout the UK.

In addition to the state pension enhancements, the Autumn Statement 2023 introduces pivotal reforms to pensions. As of April 2023, the lifetime pension allowance charge has been removed, and from April 2024, the allowance will be abolished entirely. This change aims to simplify the system and encourage individuals to save for their retirement. Moreover, the pension annual allowance has increased to £60,000 from April 2023, while the money purchase annual allowance has risen to £10,000 for those already drawing a pension. It is important to note that while these reforms are hailed as simplification measures, the opposition party, Labour, may restore the allowance if they form the next government.

Addressing Small Pot Pensions and Enhancing Control

The government recognizes the longstanding issue of “small pot” pensions and aims to address it. A call for evidence will be launched on a lifetime provider model, which aims to grant individuals greater control over their pension contributions when changing employment. This model seeks to streamline the process and empower individuals to manage their pensions effectively. However, it is crucial to consider that these changes may pose challenges for small businesses.

Extension of EIS and VCT

The Autumn Statement 2023 also outlines the government’s intention to extend the existing sunset clauses for the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Venture Capital Trust (VCT) from 6 April 2025 to 6 April 2035. This extension aims to provide continued support and incentives for investments in innovative businesses through the EIS and VCT.

Geographical Scope of Agricultural Property Relief and Woodlands Relief

Previously announced in the Spring Budget, changes are being implemented to limit the scope of agricultural property relief and woodlands relief to property in the UK. This means that property located in the European Economic Area (EEA), the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man will be treated similarly to property located outside the UK. These changes will take effect from 6 April 2024, ensuring a more consistent application of inheritance tax relief.

Help with Childcare: Expanding Support

To assist working parents with childcare costs, a phased package of support has been introduced. Starting from April 2024, working parents of two-year-olds will have access to 15 hours of free childcare. From September 2024, this will be extended to children as young as nine months for working parents. Finally, from September 2025, working parents of children aged nine months and older will be entitled to 30 hours of free childcare per week until their child starts school. These expanded offerings aim to provide parents with more flexibility and financial relief when it comes to childcare expenses.

Making Tax Digital: Simplifying Income Tax Self-Assessment

The Chancellor has announced changes to simplify the design of Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax Self-Assessment (ITSA). These changes include keeping the current MTD threshold at £30,000 and implementing design improvements to enhance the system. These changes will come into effect from April 2026. Furthermore, the government plans to legislate in the Autumn Finance Bill 2023 to ensure taxpayers who join MTD from 6 April 2024 are subject to a fairer penalty regime for late filing and payment of taxes.

Streamlining Self-Assessment Tax Return Requirements

Starting from the 2024-25 tax year, individuals with income solely taxed through PAYE will no longer be required to file a Self-Assessment tax return. This change aims to simplify the tax process for individuals and reduce unnecessary administrative burden.

Additional Resources for HMRC

To enhance HMRC’s ability to manage tax debts, the government plans to invest an additional £163 million. This investment will enable better differentiation between those who can settle their tax debts but choose not to and those who temporarily need support. HMRC will expand its debt management capacity, aiming to help both individual and business taxpayers become debt-free faster and collect outstanding debts efficiently. It is crucial to note that no additional funding for HMRC to improve current service levels was announced in the Autumn Statement 2023.

Stay Informed with Studholme-Bell

The Autumn Statement 2023 brings significant pension and tax reforms, shaping the financial landscape for individuals and businesses alike. Stay up to date with the latest developments and expert insights with our comprehensive guide on the 2023 Autumn Statement. Our team of professionals is committed to providing valuable information and guidance to help you navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.

As we enter the self-assessment season, it is crucial to remain vigilant against the increasing threat of phishing scams. HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) has recently issued a warning to taxpayers, urging them to be cautious of scammers impersonating tax authorities in an attempt to steal personal information. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into what phishing scams are, how they work, and most importantly, how you can protect yourself from becoming a victim.

What Are Phishing Scams?

Phishing scams are fraudulent attempts by cybercriminals to deceive unsuspecting individuals into divulging sensitive personal information, such as bank account details, passwords, or credit card numbers. These scammers often masquerade as legitimate organisations, such as HMRC, in an effort to gain trust and trick their victims into providing confidential data.

The Sophistication of Phishing Scams

Phishing scammers have become increasingly sophisticated in their techniques, creating fake websites and using social engineering to manipulate unsuspecting victims. They use phishing kits, which are software tools that help them set up convincing fake web pages that resemble legitimate sites. These fraudulent websites are designed to trick individuals into unknowingly sharing their personal information, which scammers then exploit for financial gain.

How to Identify Phishing Scams

As a general rule, legitimate organisations, including HMRC, will never request personal or payment information through email, text messages, or platforms like WhatsApp. If you receive any communication claiming to be from HMRC asking for such details, consider it a red flag. Additionally, be wary of messages that create a sense of urgency, threaten legal action, or promise unexpected tax rebates. These are common tactics employed by scammers to manipulate their victims.

Protecting Yourself Against Phishing Scams

To protect yourself and your finances from phishing scams, it is essential to stay informed and follow a few simple guidelines:
1. Be Skeptical: Always question the authenticity of requests for personal information. Legitimate organisations will not ask for sensitive data via email or text messages.
2. Verify the Source: If you receive a suspicious message or call claiming to be from HMRC, take the time to independently verify its authenticity. Reach out to HMRC directly using their official contact details to confirm if the communication is genuine.
3. Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, web browsers, and security software to ensure you have the latest security patches and protections against phishing attempts.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Where possible, enable two-factor authentication for your online accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring an additional verification step, such as a unique code sent to your mobile device.
5. Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about the latest phishing techniques and share this knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues. By raising awareness, you contribute to a safer online community.

Reporting Phishing Scams

If you suspect you have received a phishing attempt, take immediate action to report it. Forward suspicious emails or text messages to HMRC at phishing@hmrc.gov.uk. In the case of phone calls, report them online to the relevant authorities. By reporting these scams, you not only protect yourself but also help in the fight against cybercrime.
Phishing scams pose a significant threat to individuals and their financial well-being. By understanding how these scams work and implementing necessary precautions, you can minimise the risk of falling victim to phishing attempts. Remember to be skeptical of unexpected messages, verify sources independently, and report any suspicious activity to an accredited accountant such as Studholme-Bell or to the authorities. If you’ve received any suspicious, unsolicited phone calls, texts or emails regarding your assets, get in touch with us right away. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and protect yourself against phishing scams.
For more guidance and advice on internet scams and phishing, visit HMRC’s official ‘Avoid and Report Internet Scams and Phishing‘ web page.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or legal advice. Always consult with the appropriate authorities or professionals regarding your specific situation.
If you’re a business owner or agent, you may already be aware of the digital revolution in VAT registration. The HMRC, with their emphasis on online services, has made significant changes to the process. One such change is the complete elimination of paper VAT registration forms. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of this digital transformation and how it can benefit your business. So, let’s dive in and discover the value of online only VAT registration.

The Move Towards Online Only VAT Registration

Starting from mid-November, the HMRC is set to revolutionize VAT registration by removing the paper forms altogether. This move aligns with their vision of digitising tax-related procedures and embraces a more efficient, secure, and convenient registration process. By going online for VAT registration, businesses and agents will experience a host of benefits that were previously unavailable with the traditional paper-based approach.

1. Faster and Easier Process:

Gone are the days of filling out lengthy paper forms and waiting for them to be processed. Online registration simplifies the entire process, saving you valuable time and effort. With just a few clicks, you can now complete the VAT registration swiftly, ensuring you can focus on other critical aspects of your business.

2. Enhanced Security:

The online VAT registration service offers a higher level of security for your business data. By eliminating the need for physical documents, the risk of loss, damage, or unauthorized access to sensitive information is significantly reduced. Feel at ease knowing that your confidential data is protected with the latest digital security measures.

3. Access Anytime, Anywhere:

One of the significant advantages of online only VAT registration is the freedom it provides. You can register for VAT at your convenience, 24/7, without any geographical constraints. Whether you’re at your office, home, or on the go, all you need is an internet connection to initiate the registration process.

4. A Greener Approach:

With the paperless VAT registration system, you contribute to a more sustainable environment. By eliminating the need for paper forms, it reduces paper waste and your carbon footprint. Embrace the digital era while making an eco-conscious choice for your business.

5. Compliance with Making Tax Digital (MTD):

By transitioning to online only VAT registration, you are aligning your business with HMRC’s broader objective of embracing digital channels, including Making Tax Digital (MTD). This shift prepares you for future tax-related changes and ensures a seamless transition when MTD becomes mandatory for VAT-registered businesses.
In conclusion, online only VAT registration offers a myriad of benefits for businesses and agents alike. By leveraging the convenience, speed, and security of digital platforms, you can streamline your VAT registration process and allocate more time to grow your business. Embrace the digital era and stay ahead of the competition. Switch to online only VAT registration today and experience a smoother, more efficient registration process for your business.
As a leading provider of accounting solutions, Studholme-Bell is committed to keeping you informed about relevant updates in the industry. For expert guidance and support regarding online only VAT registration, contact our team of professionals at Studholme-Bell today.
If you’re a business owner, you might have wondered whether you need to register for VAT. Understanding the regulations and requirements can be overwhelming, but worry not! In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll break it down for you and provide all the essential information you need to know about registering for VAT.

VATable Supplies and the Registration Threshold

First things first, let’s talk about VATable supplies. If your business makes supplies that are subject to VAT, you may need to register for VAT if your taxable turnover reaches the VAT registration threshold. Currently, the threshold is set at £85,000. Once your VAT taxable turnover exceeds this threshold over a 12-month period, or you anticipate it will do so within the next 30 days, registering for VAT becomes mandatory.

Taxable Supplies: What You Need to Know

Taxable supplies are those supplies made in the UK that are not exempt from VAT. This includes supplies charged at the standard and reduced rates, as well as those liable at the zero rate of VAT. It’s important to note that exempt supplies do not need to be taken into account when determining whether you need to register for VAT.

The Benefits of Voluntary Registration

Even if your taxable turnover is below the VAT registration threshold, you have the option to register for VAT voluntarily. This can be advantageous if the value of your input VAT exceeds the output VAT, allowing you to reclaim the difference from HMRC. For example, if your business primarily deals with zero-rated items like food or children’s clothing, registering for VAT voluntarily can lead to significant savings.

When and How to Register

To adhere to the regulations, it’s crucial to register for VAT within the specified timeframes. If your VAT taxable turnover exceeded £85,000 in the previous 12 months, you must register within 30 days from the end of the month when the threshold was breached. The effective date of registration will be the first day of the second month after breaching the threshold.
Let’s consider an example to illustrate this. Suppose Helen’s VAT taxable turnover exceeded £85,000 on 2 August 2023. Helen must register for VAT by 30 September 2023 (30 days from the end of August 2023). Her VAT registration will be effective from 1 October 2023.
If you anticipate that your VAT taxable turnover will exceed £85,000 in the next 30 days, you must register by the end of the 30-day period. The effective date of registration will be the day you realized that your turnover would surpass the threshold.
For instance, let’s say Robert agreed to a £120,000 contract on 6 August 2023, with payment scheduled for 30 August 2023. If Robert realized on 6 August that his turnover would exceed £85,000 in the next 30 days, he must register by 5 September 2023. His registration will be effective from 6 August 2023.

Registering for VAT: The Process Made Easy

Registering for VAT is a straightforward process. You can conveniently register online via the gov.uk website. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can authorize your agent to complete the registration on your behalf.
In conclusion, understanding the requirements and benefits of registering for VAT is crucial for all businesses. Whether you meet the mandatory threshold or choose to register voluntarily, compliance with VAT regulations is essential. Don’t let VAT become a daunting subject for your business – take the necessary steps to ensure you’re on the right track.
For more information and assistance with VAT registration, get in touch with Studholme-Bell. We’re here to support you and answer any questions you may have regarding VAT and your business.

Are you planning to start your own business? Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, before you can start selling your products or signing new clients, you need to understand how to register your business properly. This process may seem daunting at first, but don’t worry – we’re here to help guide you through it.

In this comprehensive blog post, we will walk you through the process of registering a business, explaining the different business structures available and the obligations associated with each. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can make your dream of being a successful business owner a reality.

Understanding Business Structures

When it comes to registering your business, there are a few different structures to choose from. These include sole trader, partnership, and limited company. Each structure has its own set of advantages and obligations, so it’s important to select the one that best suits your needs.

  1. Sole Trader

As a sole trader, you’ll be running your business as an individual and will be self-employed. This structure is ideal for low-risk small businesses operated from home. To register as a sole trader, you’ll need to inform HMRC that you pay your taxes through a Self Assessment.

Managing your finances is crucial as a sole trader, so it’s recommended to open a business bank account for easier financial management. Remember, you’ll be responsible for maintaining records of your sales and expenses and submitting a Self Assessment tax return annually.

  1. Partnership

In a partnership, you register with HMRC, but you also need to choose a nominated partner who will be responsible for managing the partnership’s tax returns and business records. Partnerships allow for shared profits and tax responsibilities among the partners.

The beauty of partnerships lies in the diverse skillsets that each partner brings to the table, creating a well-balanced team dynamic. Additionally, partnerships can benefit from a sleeping partner who provides financial support without active involvement in day-to-day operations.

  1. Limited Company

Registering your business as a limited company establishes it as a separate legal entity, distinct from its owners. This structure offers personal liability protection as your personal and business assets are separate. Additionally, setting up a limited company requires registration with both Companies House and HMRC.

When you have a limited company, you can pay yourself a smaller salary and receive dividends from the company’s profits. This payment method can result in reduced overall tax liabilities. Moreover, the name “limited company” itself implies that your personal assets are protected in case of major debts or claims against the company.

Registering Your Business: The Process in Detail

Now that you have an overview of the different business structures, let’s explore the step-by-step process of registering your business:

  1. Choose Your Business Name

Before registering, you need to select an appropriate and unique name for your business. Companies House provides a name availability checker to help you determine if your desired name is available. Remember, you can use a different trading name, which might be more suitable for your brand.

  1. Register Your Address

Your business address will be publicly available, so if you prefer to protect your home address, consider using your accountant’s address or a registered business address service.

  1. Determine Your Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Code

The SIC code defines the nature of your business activities. You can find a list of SIC codes on the Companies House website. Choosing the correct SIC code is essential as it helps in accurately describing your trade.

  1. Appoint a Named Director

Every limited company needs at least one named director who will be legally responsible for the business. The director’s role includes organizing company accounts and ensuring compliance with legal obligations.

  1. Details of Shares

In a limited company, all shareholders (even if there’s only one) must agree and sign a memorandum and articles of association. These documents outline the rules governing the company’s operations.

  1. Register for Corporation Tax

If you’re operating as a limited company, you must register for Corporation Tax within three months of commencing business activities.

VAT Considerations for All Business Structures

Irrespective of your chosen business structure, VAT registration may be necessary if your business’s total turnover exceeds £85,000 in a 12-month period. Registering for VAT may have financial benefits for your business, so it’s worth considering even if you haven’t reached the threshold yet.

Starting your own business can be an exciting but challenging endeavor. Understanding how to register your business is a crucial step towards building a solid foundation for success. By choosing the right business structure and following the registration process diligently, you’ll be on your way to turning your entrepreneurial ambitions into reality.

Remember, the journey may seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance and support, you can navigate the intricacies of business registration and begin your entrepreneurial path confidently.

At Studholme-Bell, we’re here to assist and provide expert advice on all aspects of starting and growing your business. Contact us today to learn how we can help you register your business efficiently and set yourself up for success.

01257 241 111
info@studholme-bell.com

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