Posts By: ilyas Patel

HMRCs Crackdown on Fast Food outlets by 31st January 2025

HMRC Fast Food

HMRC is cracking down on tax evasion involving online platforms like Deliveroo, Just Eat, Foodhub, and Uber Eats, targeting fast food businesses and individuals suspected of underreporting their sales turnover. With the first reports under new digital platform rules due by 31st January 2025, businesses and self-employed individuals have a critical window to get their… Read more »

Consequences of Missing the Self-Assessment Deadline

Self-Assessment Deadline

The New Year is here, and with it comes the perennial duty for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and high earners in the UK: submitting your self-assessment tax return. With the 31st of January deadline fast approaching, now is the time to avoid last-minute stress and financial penalties. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: The Self-Assessment… Read more »

Protect Your Family Home from Tax

Family Home Tax

Protecting your heirs from burdensome inheritance tax bills is a growing priority for many families. With rising property values and changes in tax regulations, gifting property has become an increasingly popular strategy. However, without proper planning, this approach can backfire. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: Why Property Gifting is On the Rise With… Read more »

Frozen Tax Thresholds Put Landlords Under Inheritance Tax Pressure

Landlords Inheritance Tax

The inheritance tax freeze and rising property values are dragging over 600,000 landlords into the death tax net, creating a costly problem that could force the sale of rental properties and disrupt the housing market. Here’s how you can counteract these changes before they’re put in place. (Read Time: Approx. 3 minutes) Topics Discussed: The… Read more »

Double Taxation Risks for Pensions with New Inheritance Rules

Double Taxation Pensions

The Chancellor’s Budget announcement that pensions will fall under inheritance tax (IHT) from April 2027 is poised to reshape financial planning for retirees. This significant change could see families paying a “double tax” on pensions, with rates potentially reaching as high as 90% in extreme cases. Here’s what you need to know and how to… Read more »

Trust = Answer to Reducing Inheritance Tax

Reducing Inheritance Tax

Rising taxes and tightening relief rules have spurred many families to explore trusts as a solution for inheritance tax (IHT) planning. As the government introduces stricter measures, trust arrangements are gaining popularity among those seeking to protect their assets for future generations. While trusts can be advantageous, they come with complexities and costs that demand… Read more »

Family Investment Companies (FIC) –
Smart Tax and Succession Planning

Family Investment Companies

Family Investment Companies (FICs) are rising in popularity as powerful tools for high-net-worth families seeking robust strategies for tax efficiency and succession planning. FICs offer a flexible way to manage wealth transfer while safeguarding family assets, making them a favoured structure for those looking to protect their legacy. With their unique benefits, however, come specific… Read more »

Leveraging Holding Companies for Tax Efficiency

Holding Companies

The recent increase in Capital Gains Tax (CGT) rates has spurred interest among clients seeking alternative strategies. A noteworthy option gaining traction involves introducing a holding company. If executed with a strong commercial rationale, this approach can minimise immediate tax liabilities while offering long-term financial and tax efficiency. Let’s delve into this solution and its… Read more »

Ways to Avoid Inheritance Tax

Avoid Inheritance Tax

There are some specific strategies to help protect your family’s assets, building on last week’s general tax planning advice. Here are some essential actions you can take to mitigate your inheritance tax burden under the new rules following the 2024 Budget. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: Changes Following the Budget 2024 Rachel Reeves… Read more »

SDLT on Residential Property – What You Need to Know

SDLT on Residential Property

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is an important consideration for anyone purchasing property in England and Northern Ireland. Understanding the specifics of how SDLT applies to residential dwellings can help avoid unexpected costs and ensure compliance with the latest regulations. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: SDLT Rates and Applicability SDLT is a tax… Read more »