The UK tax system is notoriously complicated but understanding specific loopholes can save you a significant amount of money. Here are some strategies to consider before potential changes by the government might close these tax-saving avenues. (Read Time: Approx. 6 minutes) Topics Discussed: Maximising Tax-Free Allowances By leveraging various tax-free allowances, a higher-rate taxpayer can… Read more »
Family members, particularly your spouse or children, can provide tax advantages if done correctly. However, it is essential to understand and comply with HMRC guidelines to avoid any potential challenges. (Read Time: Approx. 5 minutes) Topics Discussed: Guidelines and Compliance for Employing Family Members You can employ your spouse, civil partner, or other family members… Read more »
Crafting a tax-efficient will is paramount to ensuring that your wealth benefits your loved ones rather than being diminished by taxes. Dying without an effective will, or intestate, allows the law to decide who inherits your assets, often resulting in unnecessary inheritance tax (IHT) burdens and administrative complications. (Read Time: Approx. 5 minutes) Topics Discussed:… Read more »
When dealing with HMRC, there’s a spectrum of opinion on how much information to disclose. While some taxpayers feel compelled to divulge extensive details, others remain tight-lipped. However, finding a balance is essential. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: HMRC Requirements Filling in Self-Assessment Tax Return When HMRC sends you a Self-Assessment tax return… Read more »
Extracting profits from a company in a tax-efficient manner is a complex but important task for company owners. Factors such as business type, activities, size, and family shareholders, alongside available profits, play a significant role in determining the best approach. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: Basics of Profit Extraction For individual companies with… Read more »
Creating new share classes in a family company can be a strategic way to split income among family members, but it comes with its own set of tax considerations. This week, we look at the key tax consequences, anti-avoidance provisions, and statutory requirements involved in such a process. (Read Time: Approx. 3 minutes) Topics Discussed:… Read more »
HMRC has delivered an unexpected yet advantageous update for shareholders. With the official rate of interest (ORI) for employee loans remaining remarkably low, there’s a unique window for savvy financial planning. Discover how leveraging company funds can significantly reduce your personal mortgage costs. (Read Time: Approx. 3 minutes) Topics Discussed: Take Advantage of Low Interest… Read more »
Understanding how to effectively use your pension’s annual allowance, especially in a tax year without earnings, can significantly impact your retirement savings. With changes in the annual allowance from £40,000 to £60,000 in 2023/24, it’s crucial to grasp the importance of pension contributions and the benefits they offer. (Read Time: Approx. 3 minutes) Topics Discussed:… Read more »
After the Corporation Tax rate increased from 19% to 25% in April 2023, the longstanding preference for dividends over bonuses is up for debate. This shift necessitates a deeper exploration into which form of profit distribution—dividends or bonuses—provides better tax efficiency under current tax regulations. (Read Time: Approx. 4 minutes) Topics Discussed: Understanding Dividends and… Read more »
Drafting a will goes beyond the simple division of assets—it’s a crucial decision that significantly impacts the financial legacy you leave behind. Particularly, it affects how much Inheritance Tax (IHT) your heirs might have to pay. Engaging a professional solicitor ensures that your will is legally sound but also drafted to maximise tax efficiency, thereby… Read more »
